William Harrison Thompson Jr.

William Harrison Thompson Jr., known as “Jr.” or “Bill” to those who knew him, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his beloved family on Friday, May 15, 2026, after battling terminal illness. He was born November 13th, 1929, in Woodson, Virginia, the son of the late William Harrison Thompson, Sr. and Irene Wood Thompson.

Jr. was a graduate of “the school of hard knocks” and a retired industrial mechanic of the Lynchburg Foundry. He was a bronze star bearing Army veteran and a lifetime member of the Roseland Rescue Squad where he served both his country and community, saving and touching lives. He was also a lifelong member of Piney River Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for many years. Jr. had also been an avid and dedicated woodworker and craftsman.

He was married to his late wife Retha for 57 faithful years and built a loving family. He will forever be remembered for his unassuming strength, unique brand of grit, and the countless vestiges of his generosity floating around central Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his cherished parents: three brothers, Buzz Thompson, Calvin Thompson, and Bobby Thompson; and his partner in crime Elwood Byrum - all of whom have no doubt already greeted him warmly at the gates.

He is survived by two sisters, Joanne Clarkson and Rebecca Wood; two daughters, Karen Barrett with her husband Tim, and Leigh Thompson; one beloved grandchild, Kait Pierce with her husband Ian; three

nephews, Billy Thompson, Terry Thompson, Bobby Thompson, Jr.; one niece, Kimberly Pruitt; and numerous other extended family and friends.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to all of the coordinators and nurses of the Hospice of the Piedmont, especially Hospice Aide Tina Whiting, Registered Nurse Ruthie Hurley, and Doctor Alina Fomovska, for the extraordinary care and compassion provided during the final months of his life.

The family will receive loved ones at Byrum-Parr Funeral Home, Saturday, May 23, from 6pm-7:30pm, and at other times at their home. A funeral service will be conducted Sunday, May 24, at Piney River Baptist Church, at 2 pm. Burial will follow in Jonesboro Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, if desired, can be sent to Hospice of the Piedmont, 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22911, or Roseland Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 39, Roseland, VA 22967.