Very softly and tenderly in the early hours of Friday morning, July 28, 2023 at his home, William Howard Thompson glided into the loving arms of our loving Savior.  He was called from his earthly labors to be with his Creator.  He was born on August 7, 1941 to Wilbert and Lottie Venable Thompson, who preceded him in death.  He was the twelfth child of fifteen siblings.  He was lovingly known to family, friends, and co-workers as Howard.

Howard attended the public schools of Charlotte County.  He was a loyal employee of Chesapeake until retirement.  He then worked part-time at the recycling centers at Keysville and Drakes Branch.  His commitment to love and care for his family was part of his cherished legacy.

He was married at the age of 20 years old to Elizabeth Bernice Friend, his childhood sweetheart.  To this union, five children were born:  Patrick Howard Thompson who preceded him in death, Wayne Terrance Thompson (Ana) of Richmond, Va., Evelyn Denise Graves, Lisa Thompson-Traynham, and Debreta Thompson-Clark, all of Drakes Branch, Va.

Left to celebrate his life are his grandchildren, Nicole Thompson, Tevan Eggleston, Whitney Traynham, Oneisha Clark, Kayla Thompson, and Shaunna Toombs; one great grandson, Christian Williams; two sisters, Lenore Gilmore and Lottie Butts; two brothers, Fred and Thomas Thompson; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.