It's teamwork for Thorntons
Dean Adkins - Sat, 20 Oct 2012 00:29:07 CDT
(Gravity)--When it comes to team efforts, it's definitely not all about sporting events. Just travel out to the rural areas in KMAland and you'll understand that teamwork applies to many of those who live and work on farms as well.
Layne and Joleen Thornton farm 4 miles north of Gravity and have been married for 31 years, 28 of which have been out on the farm. They work hand-in-hand on their row crop/cattle operation where the couple also has managed a Pioneer Seed dealership for the last 18 years.
The Thortons have four children; Kristin, Ryan (and his wife, Michelle), Kayse (and her husband, Nathan) and Ryley. Layne is a 1979 graduate of Bedford while Joleen is a 1980 New Market grad. They're looking forward to their first grandchild very soon!
Layne got the opportunity to do some farming when he was younger and as the years have passed still gets good help from his father-in-law, Larry Stamps of Gus.
When it comes to the farming operation, Joleen helps Layne with everything from driving trucks to running the combine to doing the books. Layne and Joleen are bound together in many ways in their loving relationship, but their main focus in keeping everything in perspective is their strong faith in God. They're very active at their church; New Life Missionary Church east of Bedford where they've enjoyed working with the youth group for many years.
This year, like many farmers in the midwest, the Thorntons have had to deal with effects of the drought. Despite the dry conditions and heat they've overall been pleased with the yields they've been getting this fall and continue to be amazed at the hybrid technology that has enabled crops to survive the brutal conditions.
When Joleen isn't busy on the farm she also enjoys quilting, scrapbooking and photography. Layne has a good time with his brother, Murray, working on and competing in "Pulling Truck" events around the midwest. (see video below)
Layne and Joleen Thornton are a great example of "and the two shall become one", as they're forever unified on their farm, with their family and with their faith.
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