In Loving Memory of Willie Herman Thompson, a cherished son of Augusta, Georgia, was born on January 6, 1935, and peacefully departed this world on October 1, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family. The youngest of four siblings, he was the son of Faries Ware Thompson and Mozell Hart Thompson of Augusta, Georgia.
Willie graduated from Lucy Laney High School in Augusta, Georgia, in 1952. Following his high school education, he enrolled at West Virginia State University, subsequently obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Alaska and a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education from George Washington University. He is a graduate of the Air Force Senior NCO Academy, Air University, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama and the Defense Acquisition University, Fort Belvoir Virginia. Additionally, he completed various other technical, leadership, and professional development courses throughout his career.
Willie enjoyed a remarkable 62-year marriage with his devoted wife, Dorothy Adams Thompson. Together, they cultivated a life rich in love, faith, and dedication to their family and community. As a committed member of Fifth Baptist Church in Richmond, VA, Willie demonstrated his unwavering faith by serving as the chairman of the Trustee Board and later as the Building Superintendent, embodying his deep devotion to his church.
Willie’s life was marked by a profound sense of service. He honorably served in the United States Air Force for 26 years, achieving the rank of Senior Master Sergeant before his retirement in 1982. Following his military career, he continued his service to the nation in the civil service as a Supervisory Management Analyst with the Department of the Army at Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia, where he retired in May 2000.
Beyond his professional and familial achievements, Willie was a distinguished 33rd Degree Master Mason, Shriner, and Past Potentate of both Mocha Temple #7 and Hilaal Temple #229. He was instrumental in establishing Hilaal Temple #229 which was Petersburg, Virginia’s first Shrine temple. His leadership and commitment to service were evident in every aspect of his life, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Willie Herman Thompson will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, as well as a devoted servant to his church, country, and community. His strength, wisdom, and faith will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and the community he served.
A proud father, Willie is survived by his three sons: Wesley Hiram Thompson (who preceded him in death), Colonel William Audwin Thompson, USAF, Retired of Manassas, Virginia, and Donald Alden Thompson of Woodbridge, Virginia. He leaves behind daughters-in-law Charlottie Russell Thompson and Greta Jones Thompson, as well as a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Jasmine Nicole Richardson of San Antonio, Texas; Breanna Nicole Bristol of Clarksville, Tennessee; Margaret C. Rollins of Manassas, Virginia; Vanessa Rae Thompson, Andrew Ware Thompson and Derek Alden Thompson of Woodbridge, Virginia. Willie was also blessed with great-granddaughters Jazelle, Kennedy, and Ava, along with two great-grandsons affectionately referred to as Junior and Noble.
Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd., where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Friday, October 11, 2024. The family will receive friends from 8 a.m. until 9 a.m., followed by Hilaal Temple Shriners # 229 and the United Supreme Council 33rd Degree Masons will perform their ceremony at 9 a.m., followed by funeral services to be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Fifth Baptist Church, 1415 W. Cary St. Rev. Ricardo L. Brown, officiating, Rev. Earl M. Brown, eulogist. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Crystal M Washington sent Emerald Garden Basket for Willie Herman Thompson - October 11, 2024
The Washington/Williams family extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. May cherished memories bring you comfort and peace. Dr. Crystal Washington (Williams)
Stately Croton was sent for Willie Herman Thompson - October 10, 2024
JERYLE JONES sent Traditional Floor Basket for Willie Herman Thompson - October 09, 2024
On behalf of Petersburg Consistory #144, Our deepest condolences to the Family on the lost of Grand Inspector General (Frater) William Thompson. GIG Jeryle A. Jones Sr. Hospitaller
Sule Markland sent Beautiful Dreams for Willie Herman Thompson - October 09, 2024
Dear Bill and Family, Sending you my sincere condolences. A father has a very special place in the heart. May you cherish all the beautiful memories. Love, Shula Markland
Kevin R Cooke Jr sent Peace Lily for Willie Herman Thompson - October 04, 2024
To the Thompson Family,
You have our heartfelt condolences. We pray for your strength in this time. Please remind each other of the wisdom he imparted.
Kevin and your Masonic Family.
To the Thompson family: Dear Aunt Dot(A,and Don), I am so sorry for your loss. You lost a husband-your partner in life,a father, and a Grandfather. Words are no consolation. I remember days long ago,of occasions shared... - Dads and Uncles hanging out as men do, and the sudden burst of rolling laughter echoing through the space. - Moms and Aunties having a chi-chat in the kitchen. - Nearby, the kids were busy doing what kids do. We dined together, and we had time together. That's what I will remember of our "Uncle Billy". Renée Williams Scott and family May the Lord strengthen you, and give you His peace.
With our deepest sympathy, may the Lord keep you and give you and your family comfort and peace during this difficult time. Sending our condolences, payers, and love. Juan and Carolyn Allen
The Fifth Baptist Church Veterans Ministry membership is saddened about the home going of Mr. Willie Thompson. He had the word master attached to his name for good reasons. You did not have to personally know him to understand why this extraordinary man was above reproach in many areas. RIP Senior Master Sergeant Willie H. Thompson.
"In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." John 14:2
To the family, with our condolences, love and support. Daviedra & Woody Sauldsberry
I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and the family. May God give you peace in your time of need.
Thompson family, our heartfelt condolences for your loss. Your father is now in God's embrace and continuing his life of dedication and service next to his beloved God.
May God's love and comfort surround you and your family during this difficult times.
JC and Madeline Garcia
Thompson family, our heartfelt condolences for your loss. Your father is now in God's embrace and continuing his life of dedication and service with his beloved God.
May God's love and comfort surround you and your family during this difficult times.
JC and Madeline Garcia
With a loss so great, there are simply no words to ease the pain. If there were, I would use them now. Please know that are praying for strength and comfort for your family.
Eddie & Shelia Stephens
My deepest condolences for your loss may the Almighty comfort you and your family during this trying time.
GIG S.R. Terry Thurman ILL Commander In Chief Johnnie L. Doctor Consistory #18 AASR, PHA, SJ Washington, DC, USA
We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Willie. Please know that you are in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. We can only imagine the pain you are feeling, and we want you to know that you are not alone.
If there's anything we can do to support you or if you simply need someone to talk to, we are here for you. Sending you all our love and strength as you navigate this profound loss.
With heartfelt sympathy, Alphonso & Maurica Felton
My condolences and prayers to the Thompson Family.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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