The son of the late James A. and Thelma Ross Thompson, Sgt. Thompson was a native of Shelby, NC. He was a U. S. Air Force Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict who retired following 23 years of dedicated service. He was also retired after 20 years from the Progress House Association as a Correctional Officer in Tacoma, WA where resided for several years. He attended Peaceful Holiness Church and was Prince Hall Mason.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Troy L. Thompson, and a grandchild, Gemuel T. Bigcas. Survivors include: his wife 57 years, Mrs. Dolores L. Wilkins Thompson; three daughters, Joycelyn Y. Thompson, Dedra L. Blocker (Joseph) and Yolandafe R. Thompson; a brother, William F. Thompson; nine grandchildren, three great grandchildren, a host of other relatives and friends.