Philip Lee Thompson

Born in Edmond, Oklahoma on November 13, 1947, Phil was the beloved son of Charles Homer Thompson and Florence Kiser Thompson. He grew up with two brothers, Jim and Bob, and a sister, Sherri. His early years were marked by a strong sense of family, faith, and athleticism—traits that would continue to define his life.

A gifted athlete, Phil was the standout quarterback throughout high school and college. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Math Education from the University of Central Oklahoma and later received a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University.

Phil married the love of his life, Cathy Branch, in 1974 at First Baptist Church of Ashburn, Georgia. Together, they built a beautiful family and life rooted in service and faith. For nearly 50 years, Phil worked with Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ), touching countless lives through his ministry. In their early days, Phil and Cathy worked to spread the Gospel with college athletes and coaches, the Soviet Union, and then worked with college students once again, and last of all with staff care at the Cru International Headquarters. Later in life, he transitioned toward a career in counseling, bringing the same compassion and intentionality to his clients that he had shared throughout his ministry. This new chapter was unfortunately cut short by an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

Phil and Cathy raised five children: Jason Thompson (wife Michele), Amber Constant (husband Tim), Stephanie Thompson, Tim Thompson (wife Karen Try), and Zac Thompson. He was a deeply affectionate father—full of love, encouragement, and dry wit. As a friend, sibling, and mentor, Phil was thoughtful, wise, gentle, and deeply grounded in his love for Jesus.

Phil is survived by his beloved wife Cathy; his children and their spouses; his grandchildren Wyatt, Makena, Vrai, Hazel, and Stella; his sister Sherri (Larry Raney); his brother Jim; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bob, and sister-in-law Sharon.

The family would like to thank Timberline Church for their faithfulness in the past six years, and the overwhelming support and community provided during this journey. In addition, both Dementia Together and Pathways Hospice Care offered priceless compassion and support. In lieu of flowers, if you feel led, donations may be made in Phil’s memory to these organizations, which provided immense care for Phil and his family.

Phil Thompson’s life was a reflection of loving well, living faithfully, and finishing strong. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.