Steven Rhea Thompson

Steven Rhea Thompson, of Copperas Cove, passed away on January 14, 2025 at the age of 68 at his home surrounded by family.

Steven was born April 23, 1956, in Riverside, California. Being from an Air Force family, Steven travelled a lot before settling in and attending high school in Burnet, Texas where he met his future wife, Linda Sue.

Immediately after graduation, Steven followed in his father’s footsteps and enlisted in the US Air Force. It was only a year later that Steven and Linda would marry on August 12, 1975. Steven received an honorable discharge from the USAF in 1982 and would go on to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in computer science from American Technological University.

Steven continued to work closely with the military as a contracting Chief Systems Engineer until his death, a role that would allow him to blend computers, aviation, and travel into a job that he truly enjoyed.

At home as at work, Steven was obsessed with new technology. Computers, stereos, game consoles, and phones showed up at the house almost as soon as they were advertised. Steven also had a love of music that started early and matured with him. From playing guitar with his friends, to collecting records, to making date nights with Linda to go dancing, to re-buying those records as CDs, Steven made sure his newest stereo always had something to play.

But mostly, Steven liked to help and was always available for family and friends no matter the hour. It didn’t matter if it was something big like building a float for the school parade or something small like changing a tire at midnight, Steven gladly made time for everyone and his generosity will be greatly missed.

Steven is survived by his wife, Linda Sue Thompson of Copperas Cove; his children: James Thompson and wife Rachel of Richardson, Michael Thompson of Denton, Nathan Thompson and wife Stephanie of North Richland Hills, and William Thompson of Odessa; his grandson Christopher Thompson of Richardson; and his brother: Kenneth Thompson and wife Sue of Largo, Florida; and his sister, Barbara Thompson of Copperas Cove. Steven was preceded in death by his parents James and Anita Thompson and his brother David Thompson.

The family would also like to thank Vicki, Laura, and Leslie from Heart of Texas Hospice and Joanna from MedTex for the care, information, and guidance they provided over the last few years. The dignity and empathy showed to Steven will not be forgotten.

A celebration of Steven’s life will be held at Campfire Bar & Grill in Copperas Cove, Texas on Saturday, February 22nd at 2:00 PM. This will be a casual event for sharing stories and memories of Steven surrounded by friends and family, please dress as you feel comfortable.