Rod L. Thompson, age 80 of Columbus, GA, passed away on February 1, 2023 surrounded by his family. A Holy Rosary will be held on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 5:00 pm at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Rd. a visitation will begin at 6:00 pm. A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, February 10, 2023 at 11:30 am at St. Anne Church, 2000 Kay Circle, Columbus, GA. Interment will be at 2:00 pm at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery, with full military honors, at 553 Hwy 165, Fort Mitchell, AL.
Rod was born on January 1, 1943 in La Union, Philippines; the son of Jose Tongson and Eusebia Lomboy. Prior to the Army, Rod left the Philippines and traveled to Europe. He became a waiter in the various cities he stayed in, learning quickly how hard the work, and how much he appreciated his tips. Rod was a proud member of the U.S. Army, he served for 20 years and retired as a SSG Infantryman Instructor, he retired in 1995. Rod met Estrella Dumlao, during his 1st stint at Ft. Benning while she was working as a traveling nurse. Rod and Estrella were married on October 2, 1981, in Honolulu, Hawaii and were married for 41 years. Rod attended Columbus Technical College and received training in Automotive Technology. He worked at MWR Auto Center and retired in 2006. Rod strived to learn as much as possible. He lived a life of discipline and grace, which was evident by the way he respected others, treated others, and always made a point of leaving a good tip for those who served him. He loved to go hunting, fishing, and traveling with his wife. Rod had a passion for literature, classical music, poetry and was faithful member of St. Anne Catholic Church. Above all Rod was a loyal soldier who loved his wife, his son, his daughters, and his friends.
Rod is preceded in death by: his son, Bobby; his brothers, Fred, Ben; his sister, Juanita; and his parents, Jose and Eusebia Tongson.
Survivors include: his wife, Estrella; his daughters, Lei (Danielle); his sisters, Teresa, Josephine; and many other family members and friends that will cherish his memory.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation on behalf of Rod to Columbus Hospice or to St. Anne’s Catholic Church.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Thompson family.
