Sellas Thorn, Jr. passed away peacefully May 1, 2023, at his home in University Place, Washington, surrounded by his family and close family friends while listening to his favorite songs by Lionel Richie. He was born December 17, 1942 to Ella and Settler Thorne Sr in Red Oak, North Carolina.

Sellas served in the United States Army for 22 years, stationed in Germany, Japan, Korea and Fort Lewis, WA. After serving in the Army, he worked at the Pierce College Dental Hygiene School for over 20 years where his bright and calming presence helped so many students through school each day. Throughout his retirement, he loved spending time with his grandchildren, spending time in nature collecting rocks and unique pieces of wood, reading and helping his sons with projects at their houses. He lived a simple yet full life and was a friend to everyone.

Sellas will always be remembered for his constant positive outlook on life. Whenever he was asked how he was doing, his response was always the same, "I'm super good… but I'll get better." Material things never made him happy, it was always his family, friends and the simple beauty of nature that brought a smile to his face. His positive outlook was contagious and it brings the family peace knowing he never feared death. He told a former student once that he knew when it was his time he would be at peace, comfortable and loved.

He is survived by his wife of over 52 years, Ghislaine; sons Romuald (Wendy) and Stefan (Julie); grandchildren Alexi, Briella and Finley; sisters, Edna Hooper and Ruth Primis; many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Settler and Ella Thorne; step-mother Maggie Thorne; brothers George Thorne (Dorothy), Willie Thorne (Vilette), Horace Thorne (Arlene) and Robert Lee Thorne (Ernestine); and sister Eula Sessoms.

A small military honors service for immediate family will be held on June 2, 2023 at Tahoma National Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 10th at 2pm at the Thorn Home in University Place, WA. To honor his legacy, please consider making a donation to a cause or charity that has meaning to you or simply focus spending more time outdoors and living life with a more positive outlook. Sellas always knew the world needed more optimism, and we can all carry on his legacy through everyday interactions built around love and positivity.