Benny Thompson

Benny L. Thompson, age 77. Sunrise August 15, 1946 and Sunset August 14, 2024. Benny was born in Welch, West Virginia and the youngest son to the late Willie and Patricia Thompson. Benny passed at home surrounded by family.

He was a proud graduate of Johnathan Alder High School. After high school, Benny entered the Air Force and served in Vietnam, dedicating himself to the values of duty and service. He worked and retired from UPS. Benny was also an ordained minister and was assistant pastor to former Bishop Malcolm Briley.

Earlier in his life he found solace and joy in reading, often immersing himself in a variety of genres which broadened his knowledge and understanding of the world. After suffering a stroke, reading became challenging. However, he found a new joy, Star Trek. Benny also found joy spending time with family whether it was meeting at a restaurant or a cookout at a family members home or traveling to see family in Kentucky, Georgia, and Mississippi. Family meant everything to him.

Benny leaves behind his loving wife, Brenda Thompson, and a large, cherished family. He is survived by his children, Michele Hardgrow, Benny L. Thompson Jr. (Alicia), Jermaine Watkins, Marcus Watkins, Tonia Thompson, Shonia Crawford (Mark)and Romale Thompson (J'Nitra); and a legacy of grandchildren (22) and great-grandchildren (11) who will miss his guidance and love. He also leaves behind his brother, Richard Thompson (Cathy), and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will fondly remember his presence in their lives.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Patricia Thompson; his siblings, Willie Thompson, Jr., Odell Thompson, Gwen Booker, and Teresa Thompson-Watkins-Freeman; and his first wife, Linda Thompson.

His life was marked by his commitment to his family, and his love for reading, which he believed was key to personal growth and understanding. He was a rock to many. Benny's legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched.