Jerry Frank Thompson

Jerry Frank Thompson, age 79, passed away on December 23, 2022.

Jerry was born in Asheboro, NC on May 6, 1943 to Paul and Pauline Thompson of Star, NC.

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, MD, his sister-in-law Kathleen Thompson of Raleigh, NC, nieces, Tracey (Bart), Chris (Bill), Pauline (Ray), nephew John David Thompson and many great-nieces and nephews.

Jerry lived most of his life in Star, NC. After high school, he received an Associate Degree in Art from Wingate College, a Bachelor Degree of Arts from Wake Forest University and achieved his Masters of Arts in Teaching from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC.

Jerry began his teaching career at East Montgomery High School in January, 1965. From 1968-1975 he taught in Raeford, NC at Hoke County High School where Mr. Raz Autry was principal. He then returned to East Montgomery and taught until his retirement in 2000. Mr. Thompson was named Hoke County High School and East Montgomery “Teacher of the Year”. During the 1960’s, 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.

Mr. Thompson 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 Marshall one year. He organized a Christmas Luncheon for the Retired Teacher’s Association for many years.

He was truly a kind, generous, and thoughtful person, teacher, friend and brother. He will be missed.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at Phillips Funeral Home from 3:00-7:00 pm.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 30, 2022 at First Baptist Church of Star at 11:00 am 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, PO Box 358 Star, NC 27356.

Online condolences may be left at www.phillipsfh.com.

The Thompson family is being served by Phillips Funeral Home in Star.

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