Earley Dean Thompson

He was the son of John Robert and Georgia Mae Thompson of Keysville, VA. Earley is survived by his wife of 68 years, Irma Anderson Thompson; two sisters, Dr. Shirley Thompson and Joyce Bridges; his daughters, Cynthia (Earl) Moore and Kristin (Dale) Robertson; his grandchildren, Erin Downing, Jonathan Moore (Hillary), Justin (Christiana) Moore, Jason Moore, Krystle (Tim) Snyder, Dean (Janice) Robertson; and seven great-grandchildren: Austin, Katelyn, Nathan, William, Bryan, Hailey and Blair. He was preceded in death by his parents and middle daughter, Wyndi Thompson.

Earley retired as a Master Mason and Superintendent following 47 years of employment with Snow Jr. & King Masonry Construction, which included major building work for Colonial Williamsburg, William & Mary and surrounding areas. His love for building, gardening and tireless help to others is his lasting legacy. He especially loved mentoring his grand and great-grandchildren in the time-tested farmer’s ways of growing things. The picture of Earley on his Farmall Cub tractor is ever etched in our memories. A man of few words, his actions spoke loud of his caring heart.

He was a member of Smith Memorial Baptist Church and involved in several church starts in the Williamsburg area.

Thankfully, most all family, including recently born Blair Moore (3–19-2025) were able to love and be loved by Earley in his closing days. Likewise, close friendships with Wayne and Carol Carden, Warren and Paula Raines, Phil and Sally Hull, Gail Engelken and his close masonry buddies, especially Eddie Wells, Doyle Wells, Billy Shoaf, Tori Johnson, and Lawrence “Vern” Bell, provided repeated comfort to Earley and the family while he was homebound—thank you to these and everyone who visited!

The family would also like to thank our Home, Palliative and Hospice caregivers: Morgan, Allison, Cindy, Heather, Victoria, Shenieka and respective staff supporters.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188 from 6-8PM. A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 11AM at Smith Memorial Baptist Church/Gospel Way Baptist Church, 6515 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188. The family will greet visitors in the church fellowship hall following the memorial service for lunch and fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Earley’s name to Glory Reins Ranch, 1587 Plank Road, Farmville, VA 23901 and/or to the Smith Memorial Baptist Church Building Fund. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.

“…if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” (Romans 10:9-10).