Murray L. Thompson

Murray L. Thompson, 85, of Springfield, passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2013 at Lewis Memorial Christian Village. Murray was born March 31, 1928 in St Louis, MO, the son of Roscoe C. Thompson and Thelma Kelley Thompson. He married Betty L. Gaines on August 13, 1948 in Jacksonville, IL. Murray loved spending time with his family, photography, music, reading and ministry. He served as an elder in the South Congregation at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses for many years. He retired from Pillsbury Mills after 30 Years of service and was their first black Master Welder. He was also very skilled in electrical, plumbing, mechanical work and was a master in people skills. He served in the United States Army. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother; and granddaughter, Andrea "Andie" Cason. He is survived by his wife, Betty L. Thompson; daughters, Sharon (Bruce) Phifer, Deborah Batiste and Patricia Thompson Stinson; grandchildren, Joelle (Norman) Dixon, Sean Jackson, Je'uan Thompson, Kevin Jackson, Dustin Cason, Freddy Lloyd Thompson, and Tiffaney (Kelvin) Hopson; siblings, Herman (Roberta) Thompson, Dolores Smith, Marva (Sam) Williams, Barbara Smith, and Gloria Simmons; and a host of great-grandchildren; great great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering and Ceremony: CEREMONIES HAVE BEEN CHANGED TO: Family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial ceremony at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 7, 2013 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Flowers and plants may be sent to Butler Funeral Homes and Cremation Tribute Center, 900 S. Sixth Street, Springfield, IL 62703, (217) 544-4646. Cards and donations may be sent directly to the family.