John Thornton Fulton of Normal, Illinois, formerly of Washington, Illinois passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at age 91 in Bloomington, Illinois.

John was born February 5, 1935, in Vandalia, IL, to Eva (Swarm) and John T. Fulton Sr. On August 28, 1954, he married Carla Jean Slifer in St. Elmo, IL

Surviving are his wife, Carla Fulton; two sons, John D. (Sheryl) Fulton of Lincoln, IL, and Bruce T. (Napis) Fulton of Aurora, IL; and one daughter, Kay (Kent) Nichols of Batavia, IL. Surviving grandchildren are Andrew (Corie) Fulton, David (Rachel) Fulton, and Daniel (Holly) Fulton, and Jennifer (Jason) Paprocki. Great-grandchildren are Alexandra Paprocki, Connor Paprocki, Harry Fulton, Caroline Fulton, Louise Fulton, Daisy Fulton, Lila Fulton, Etta Fulton, John Fulton, and Josephine Fulton. His parents, along with his five stepbrothers and two stepsisters, all preceded him in death.

He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in science from Eastern Illinois University. He taught for several years before enlisting in the US Marine Corps. Returning to teaching, he then earned his master’s degree at the University of Illinois.

St. Charles, IL, was the place they chose to raise their family. He spent most of his teaching career teaching high school chemistry in District 303 in St. Charles. During the summers, he worked for Continental Insurance Company as a crop and hail adjuster.

After retiring, the Fultons enjoyed their summers at a cozy cottage on Delavan Lake, WI, and spent winters relaxing in Hot Springs Village, AR. John also worked during tax season at H&R Block in Oswego, IL, adding to their busy, fulfilling lives.

He loved carving wooden ducks and fish, fishing, playing golf, and tending his garden. He joyfully shared his shorebird and hummingbird art at local shows and festivals. Both of them cherished traveling together, making new memories, and exploring new places.

After returning to Illinois, he and Carla chose to settle in Washington, where John, now a member of The Bridge United Methodist Church, once belonged to Crossroads Global Methodist Church both in Washington. Their journey reflects a heartfelt connection to their faith communities.

The Illinois Anatomical Gift Association will receive his remains for scientific study. After cremation, his remains will be inurned at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Peoria Salvation Army. To share a memory or send condolences to his family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.