Hezkiah Thompson

Chief Hezkiah “Hez” Thompson, USN (Ret.), age 89, passed away on July 20, 2026 at his home in Escondido, California surrounded by his loving family. One of thirteen siblings, he was born on February 24, 1937 in Jasper, Alabama, the son of Willie and Lois Thompson. When he was 5 years old, the family relocated and settled in the Toledo, Ohio area where they purchased a farm.

At an early age he discovered he was a fast runner, and he had a talent for football. He was a star running back all four years he attended Holland High School, and his talent earned him a football scholarship to the University of Toledo. During his first semester at UT, he decided to change direction and enlisted in the U.S Navy. This began his 25-year military career, serving his nation honorably home and abroad, including 3 years in war-time Vietnam. He received numerous awards, decorations, and promotions, including his promotion to Chief Petty Officer. While in the Navy, he continued his college education and earned a degree in Behavioral Science. Hez was a proud career sailor and a mentor to many young enlisted sailors and those who were considering enlisting.

Upon retiring from the Navy, he went to work in Civil Service, first as an EEO Counselor and then as an inspector with the Department of Defense. He retired from his second career in 2001. Retirement gave him more time to spend on his favorite past-times: traveling, playing golf, and visiting with family and friends. Known for being friendly and outgoing, Hez loved meeting new people and hearing their stories. He will always be remembered for his strength, wisdom, loyalty, trustworthiness, and dependability.

Hezkiah is survived by his wife Melanie, his children Quincy, Hezkiah Jr., Joy, James, Heather, and Jennifer, his grandchildren Damon, Kisha, Jeremy, Kandise, Jasmine, Sarah, Hezkiah II “Joaquin,” Lavar, Devon, Sharlene, Andrew, Billy, Alina, and Trinity, siblings James “JC,” Willa, Diane, Jimmie, and Cynthia, and many loving great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Nellie, his son Dennis Keith, grandchildren Mitchell and Onyx, and siblings Willie (Dub) Jr., Hester, Clyde, Senetta, Mack, Mary, and Oscar.