Thornton Roots

I have yet to come across the inclusion of this particular Francis Thornton in regard to North Carolina land transactions nor residing in Norfolk Virginia, within family trees, articles or discussions.

9 Sep 1714, Francis Thornton was issued 600 acres of land in Chowan County, NC. The land joins to the lines of John Barket/Birkett and the Widow Earby/Early at the head of Bear Swamp, also William Copelands corner by Sandy Run. [Land Patent Book 8 page 233 as Chowan County Grant].

15 Oct 1715, Francis Thornton, Planter of Norfolk County in Virginia, sells to Edward Mason, 100 acres in Chowan Precinct. This 100 acres is part of the 600 acres from 1714, and the land joins to John Birketts line. [Thornton to Mason. Chowan Deeds 1715-1719, FHL Film # 007513263, image 124/769].

19 Oct 1715, Francis Thornton, Planter of Norfolk County, VA, sells to Richard Bacon, 100 acres lying in Chowan Precinct. This 100 acres is part of the 600 acres from 1714, and the land joins to the lines of John Birkett and William Copelands land. [Chowan Deeds 1715-1719, FHL Film # 007513263, image 126/769].

Could this Francis Thornton be the father or close kin of Thomas Thornton the Quaker or Thomas Thornton of Johnston County, who was sold land by Mark Phillips? [Phillips to Thornton, Deeds, v. 1-2 1754-1768, FHL Film # 007513438, image 304/498].