Jerry Frank Thompson died December 23, 2022 at age 79.
He was born in Asheboro May 6, 1943 to Paul and Pauline Lassiter Thompson of Star.
He lived most of his life in Star. After high school, he received an Associate Degree in Art from Wingate College, a Bachelor of Arts from Wake Forest University and achieved his Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He began his teaching career at East Montgomery High School in January 1965.
From 1968-1975 he taught in Raeford at Hoke County High School where Mr. Raz Autry was principal. He then returned to East Montgomery and taught until his retirement in 2000. He was named Hoke County High School and East Montgomery "Teacher of the Year." During the 1960s, he was chairman of the State Future Teachers of America Advisory Council. He taught all senior English courses at EMHS, as well as Yearbook and Journalism. He had many fond memories of his Yearbook staff and all that they accomplished. While at East, he also helped to coordinate each year's graduation. He was famous for greeting his students with a hug or a handshake before receiving their diplomas. In his retirement year, he was the speaker for the Class of 2000.
He had a love of teaching, learning, people, the church, travel, theater and of course – food! He made everyone he touched feel special. He was a member of Star First Baptist Church for all his life. He played the organ, piano, directed the choir and sang in the choir. He was active in Star's Christmas Parade for many years and was Grand Marshal one year. He organized a Christmas luncheon for the Retired Teachers' Association for many years. He was truly a kind, generous and thoughtful person, teacher, friend and brother.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Larry Paul Thompson and nephew Larry Paul Thompson Jr.
He is survived by his sister, Patsy Thompson Hall (John) of North Potomac, Maryland; his sister-in-law, Kathleen Thompson of Raleigh; nieces, Tracey (Bart), Chris (Bill), Pauline (Ray); nephew, John David Thompson; and many great-nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. Thursday, December 29, 2022 at Phillips Funeral Home.
A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 30, 2022 at First Baptist Church of Star with the Rev. Ralph Smith and Rev. Jimmy Shirlen officiating. Burial will follow at Liberty Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Baptist Church of Star, P.O. Box 358, Star, NC 27356. Online condolences may be left at www.phillipsfh.com.