Tribute to Blocker ThorntonFounder, Pastor Mike Back, Presented this tribute to Blocker the night of the Eagle Creek Recovery Center's 2011 benefit
The vision of Eagle Creek Recovery Center is to help men caught in the vicious cycle of addiction, find freedom in Christ and fully recover the life God designed them to live. Blocker Thornton had a similar vision. His personal mission statement was to "Help those who had been beaten down by life’s mistakes."
Blocker left the stage of life much too soon for all of us, but not before leaving a permanent mark in our hearts and lives. He impacted many who are now changing lives as well. There are men here tonight like Marshall Jones, Chris Campbell, Pat Durr, and many others who Blocker cared for when they were going through some of the most difficult challenges of their lives. Blocker was also well known in our community. He was a gifted high school and college athlete, a successful business and family man, and was a powerful supporter of Byrd High School, LSU, Community Renewal, and Eagle Creek Recovery Center.
Most importantly, he was a strong man of faith. He believed in a loving, powerful God who desires to reconcile men to Himself. Blocker believed that no one was too far gone. He believed there was promise and potential in each individual and went to great lengths to draw that out of those he cared for and communicated that with not only words but also in action. Whether that was through phone calls, leading a bible study, house and jail visits, or taking people to an LSU ball game, he was amazing and cared deeply about what you and I care about...
In 2004 at a benefit just like this, Blocker heard the testimony of Nathan Clevinger and was so deeply stirred and decided he would come along side and do whatever he could to promote the cause. And when Blocker decided he DECIDED!
For us it was a game changing moment. When a game changer comes into the ball game the speed of the game increases and each player performs at a higher level and more points are scored. When Blocker came on board he brought his resources, influence, and his presence. He encouraged staff, students, and particularly the men he mentored. He started with one, soon it became two, then three and it continued to grow. They would meet at his home and he would present the Word and Minnett would present the cookies. The next day you can imagine what the men talked about the most; the teaching was excellent but the cookies were AWESOME !!! The meeting eventually out grew their home and continues to meet every Tuesday, Sunday, and some on Monday. He would certainly go way beyond the call of duty by showing up in court, helping them get jobs, vehicles, and even had birthday parties for their kids.
We are forever grateful for his impact and influence that will continue through changed lives of the men of Eagle Creek.
