Tommy Thompson

Tommy Charles Thompson, 71, of Counce, TN passed away on January 13, 2026, surrounded by the people he loved most, after a courageous 17-month battle with Overlap Syndrome. He fought hard, on his own terms, and with the same stubborn determination he applied to pretty much everything in life.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Tommy married the love of his life, Joyce Thompson, in 1975. They shared 50 years of marriage—which frankly deserves its own medal—built on loyalty, sarcasm, love, and a mutual understanding that Tommy was never right.

He was the proud father of his favorite (and only) child, Nikki Thompson Olson, and the undisputed best Pawpaw ever to his grandchildren, Wrigley and Daniel Meanovich. Tommy was their loudest sideline cheerleader, never missing a chance to support them during their sporting events, he was always there cheering loud and proud.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary Jane Thompson, and his sisters, Carol Barker and Joy Keeling. He is survived by his only living brother, Jim “Bubba” Tillman, who shared a lifetime of stories, laughs, and brotherly bonds.

Exceptionally smart and never satisfied with average, Tommy spent most of his career as a biomedical engineer, solving complex problems with ease. Earlier in life, he worked at the Firestone Tire Company, where he didn’t just show up—he set assembly-line records, because that’s just how he was wired.

Outside of work, Tommy was a badass angler and golfer. He loved fishing for large and smallmouth bass, always chasing the next big one. On the golf course, he only played Pro V1 golf balls—because tradition matters, regardless of handicap—and firmly believed every round should start with Bloody Marys and include a hot dog at the turn. He was also well-known for growing the hottest peppers in town, which were not for the faint of heart.

Tommy was effortlessly everyone’s favorite uncle, cousin, and nephew—but above all else, he was the best dad: steady, loyal, protective, and always in his daughter’s corner.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Tina Crull and Debbie Bell Jenkins for always being there, stepping in without hesitation, and showing up in every way that mattered. Heartfelt thanks are also extended to all of Tommy’s friends who were truly family, for the calls, texts, jokes, encouragement, and constant support that lifted his spirits and carried him through chemo when he needed it most. Deep gratitude is also extended to the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Dr. Aric Hall for the exceptional care, compassion, and respect shown to Tommy throughout his journey.

From Nikki:

Dad, thank you for being my constant, my protector, my teacher, and my biggest fan. Thank you for showing me what real strength looks like, how to stand my ground, and how to love without limits. I hope you knew how deeply you were loved—and how much of you lives on in me and your grandkids. I’ll carry you with me always. I love you more than words could ever say.

And to the world’s largest cancer center in Texas, MD Anderson: you promised my father a stem cell transplant, made us jump through endless hoops, gave us hope—and then cruelly took it back. In doing so, you signed his death warrant. You killed a man who fought like hell and deserved better. That is not anger; that is truth. Do better. Be better. And never forget the man you failed. You will never erase him.

Lastly, if you’re reading this, he’d probably tell you to crack a Bloody Mary, smoke a joint, go fishing, and don’t be sad. He wants everyone to remember the good times and celebrate for him.