Richard Thompson

On April 4, 1935, Richard Thompson graced the world with his presence, bringing joy and light into the lives of everyone he encountered for the next nine decades. Louisville, Kentucky, was the location of his birth and where he spent his childhood and teenage years.

In the early 1950’s with the support of his older siblings, Richard migrated to Los Angeles, California. The Golden State presented him with boundless opportunities and challenges, leading to personal growth and transformation. His academic journey in the Los Angeles Unified School District culminated in his graduation from John C. Fremont High School.

After graduation, Richard embarked upon a new chapter of his life marrying Mary Elizabeth Kelly. They welcomed four children into their family, Beverly, Richard, Janet, and Linda. In the end, they chose to pursue separate dreams, but their journey left an enduring legacy.

In 1983, Richard met Barbara Vanley and they married during the holiday season on December 26th, 1985. Their union of over 40 years included stepchildren that Richard embraced as his own, Mary Ann, Jeffry, Vegas and Antoinette. The couple enjoyed traveling together and hosting family and friends in their home.

Driven by his vision and pursuit of excellence, Richard successfully established a flourishing career at Weber’s Bread company. Beginning his journey as a baker, he ascended into the ranks of trucking operations, supervisory and management roles. He mentored and guided countless employees for nearly four decades.

With a boisterous personality, a voice for all to hear and a smile that lit the room, Richard’s presence was known in every space he occupied. He loved to share history, travel and was masterful in the game of Blackjack. He never knew a stranger and encouraged all those who he loved to pursue their goals and dreams.

Although Richard has left this world behind, he has reunited with his loved ones, which include his parents, his siblings, daughter Beverly Thompson and son Richard Carl Thompson.

Richard’s unwavering love and devotion to his family will never be forgotten. Those who will cherish his memory are his wife, Barbara Thompson; daughters Janet Thompson, Linda Bickham; stepchildren, Mary Ann Hall, Vegas Vanley, Jeffrey Bradley, and Antoinette Bradley; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Brenda Bolden, LaNell Lewis, Cozetta Hilburn, Ron Lewis, and Maderal Hilburn. His grandchildren, Colette Thompson, La Chanee Thompson, Tylon Bickham, Jerry Thompson, California Torry, Monterey Torry, Sydney Hall, Micheal K.C. Vanley, Alex Tinsley, Jeffrey Bradley, Jr., Raquel Stevenson, D’vonte Bradley, D’andre Bradley, Lindsey Davis, Kenzel Davis, Shontell Wash, Shawna Wash and William Wash; and a host of great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, countless other great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends who will ensure that his memory endures and continues to inspire generations to come.

The Merry King

A heart of laughter, with joyous smile

A wit of swiftness in cunning wile

With warmth and humor, he shared his table

His tone unbridled, yet his focus stable

Strong in stance and bold in purpose

A man much deeper than his surface

Enduring time with weathered sting

He rests at last, this Merry King

Love,

Ronnell