An overbased sulfonate modified lithium carboxylate grease composition and method of manufacture comprising overbased calcium sulfonate, overbased magnesium sulfonate, or both added to a source of lithium hydroxide, base oil, and optionally one or more acids when a complex grease is desired. When overbased sulfonate is added, the amount of dicarboxylic acid relative monocarboxylic acid may be reduced. Additionally, the amount of lithium hydroxide added may be less than stoichiometrically needed to react with the acids. A sulfonate modified lithium grease with improved thickener yield and dropping point may be made without multiple heating and cooling cycles or using a pressurized kettle.