Carroll M. Thompson

Carroll Monroe “Tommy” Thompson, age 90, passed away peacefully, comforted by his wife, in the early evening of February 5, 2024 from complications of laryngeal cancer.

Carroll was born July 17, 1933 in Columbia, SC. He was the second son of Ernest Toy and Mildred Louise Ward Thompson.

He was a graduate of Dreher High School class of 1951. Following graduation Carroll enlisted in the Navy for a four-year tour of service aboard the USS Rodman. Some years later he attended the University of South Carolina and graduated in 1973. He was and remained a faithful Gamecock football fan supporting the Carolina Gamecocks to the end.

Carroll (Tommy) retired from Allied Chemical in 1987 and following retirement became co-owner of North Forty Enterprises, and owner of Busy Bee Honey and Southern Scent Soaps. He finally retired from “never working again” at age 89 years and 5 months. He was a skilled beekeeper and an avid collector and “engineer” of O Gauge model trains.

His ever-present positive attitude towards life’s adventures and adversities carried him far. He believed that every problem had a solution and never settled for anything less.

Carroll is survived by his wife of 40 years, Cynthia Cockrell Thompson; his son, Jeffery Scott Zirger (Elaine) and his two step sons and their families; his daughter, Billie Jo Zirger and her children, Sara “Sadie” Alice Runge (fiancé Tracy) and Val Runge; his loyal Boykin Spaniel, Shirt, and many loving in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and infant brother.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home – Lexington. Visitation will be followed by the funeral service in the Caughman-Harman Funeral Home – Lexington Chapel. Burial will be at Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens, 2603 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC.

A special thank you to Dr. Steven Madden and Jennifer Peagler, AGACNP-BC for their exceptional, kind and compassionate care.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made at www.caughmanlexington.com for the Thompson family.