Dr. James William Thompson Ph.D

J. William 'Bill' Thompson passed away peacefully at his home the evening of April 21, 2018. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of almost 63 years, Fay Jennings Thompson; sons, Hubert Thompson and Paul Thompson, both of Chicago, IL, and son Boyd Thompson and daughter-in-law Lisa Keylon Thompson of Nashville, TN. He is also survived by his nephew Tommy Ballard of Gulfport, MS, and niece Tracy Ballard of Mobile, AL. He also was loved by his grandpets Barbara Gordon and Justice.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, James and Florence H. Thompson of Cleveland, MS; and sisters Emma Frances West (Julian) of Cleveland, MS and Shirley Ballard (Tom) of Gulfport, MS.

He was born November 15, 1929, in the small town of Philipp, MS. He was a graduate of Cleveland (MS) High School, then earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Delta State University in three years. He taught band at West Tallahatchie High School in Webb, MS. Afterwards, he served in the United States Marine Corps from 1951- 1952. He taught instrumental music in the Nashville school system. He earned a Master of Music and a Doctorate of Philosophy at Peabody College. He also did additional graduate study at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Harvard University.

As an ordained minister, he served as the Minister of Music in Baptist churches in Tennessee and Lousiana. He taught music courses at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Belmont University. He retired after thirty years of service as an editor of music and Sunday School materials at the Baptist Sunday School Board, now known as Lifeway Christian Resources, which presented him the "Career of Excellence Award". Bill had a love for music, particularly Big Band Music, and enjoyed watching episodes of The Lawrence Welk Show on Saturday night.

The family would like to thank Bill's caregivers Melanie, Eva, and Dee for their loving care of Bill. Also, gratitude is extended to the staff and volunteers of Alive Hospice for their wonderful assistance and service.

The family will be welcoming friends from 9 am to 11 am on Friday, April 27th, at Immanuel Baptist Church in Belle Meade, TN. A Celebration of Life service will be held immediately following the visitation in the sanctuary of the church. Pastor Steven Meriwether will be officiating. A private entombment will take place at Hermitage Memorial Gardens Mausoleum in Hermitage, TN, at 2 pm.

Memorial gifts can be made to Alive Hospice, Immanuel Baptist Church, or the charity of your choice.