Willie J. Thompson, Jr

Willie James Thompson, Jr was born January 4, 1942, in Welch, West Virginia, to the late Willie and Patricia (Linville) Thompson. He graduated from Columbus East High School; attended Columbus State (formerly known as Columbus Technical Institute); and Franklin University. Willie had a penchant for knowledge, thus he was frequently enrolled in a class.

Serving his country in the United States Army, Willie obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant. He retired after 20 years of service. Following his military service, he worked and retired from Ohio Bell/Ameritech (AT&T).

Willie joined Tabernacle Baptist Church in 1996 under the pastorate of the late Rev. Dr. Odell Waller. In his spare time, Willie loved repairing electronics, fishing, and watching western TV shows.

On May 16, 2024, Willie passed away peacefully. He is preceded in death by his son, Willie “Billy” J. Thompson III; parents; sisters, Gwen (Thompson) Booker and Teresa (Thompson) Freeman; and brother, Odell Thompson.

Willie is survived by his wife of 62 years, Alfreda Thompson; children, Robert “Bobby” (Veronica) Thompson, Tujuana “Sissy” Thompson, and Lajuana “Angel” Thompson; grandchildren, T’Quan Wilson, Octavius “Alex” Wilson, Carmalita Wilson, Mi-Angel Thompson, Sky Queen Thompson, and Zuriel Thompson; brothers, Richard (Cathy) Thompson and Benny (Brenda) Thompson; brother-in-law, Eddie Oliver; sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Smith and Rebecca Robinson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation 10:00am and Funeral 11:00am Thursday, May 30, 2024 at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 2188 Woodward Ave.