Howard Lee “Tommy” Thompson, age 100, Carthage, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, August 31, 2022, at St Luke’s Nursing Center, Carthage, Missouri. He was born on December 2, 1921, in El Paso, Texas, the son of the late Ambrose and Helen (Crawford) Thompson. He graduated from Little Rock North High School in 1939.
Tommy was a veteran serving his country during WWII with the United States Navy. He married Emma “Lois” Wallace on July 3, 1944, in Los Angeles, California, she preceded him in death on July 11, 2012. After serving in the Navy, he and Lois started a family and Tommy began his career as a minister. Tommy pastored churches all over Missouri before and while attending seminary, and then after seminary until his retirement as District Superintendent in 1989. Tommy enjoyed bird hunting with his uncles when he was younger, fishing especially fly fishing, writing poetry, and dancing where he met his second wife Joan McMullen who also preceded him in death. He especially enjoyed spending time with his two best friends Bill Snodgrass and James Lee.
Survivors include his children, Sue Miller, Florida, Barbara DaRe (Mike), California, Shirley Bowman (Jerry) Missouri and Greg Thompson, Missouri; a sister, Norma Sugg; six grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren.
He was also preceded in death by a brother Robert Guinn.
“Death- for all that it is- is a leap into our Father’s arms.” HLT
Per Tommy’s wishes there was cremation, and a private family service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
