Jerry Lee Thompson, 79, of Salem, Va. passed away on Monday, April 29, 2019. Jerry was a 1957 graduate of ALHS and a proud “Hoo” graduate of UVA. He loved his Lord, family, friends, and lifelong friend, Billy Swain and wife, Dorothy, who were always just a phone call away. Jerry served in the U.S. Army Reserves, and retired from Ortho Pharmaceutical. He was an active member of Central United Methodist Church in Salem and served many years as President of the Methodist Men. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elbert and Fannie Thompson; nine brothers; and two sisters.
Surviving is his devoted wife of 56 years, Peggy Jennings Thompson; children, Andrea T. Ramsey and husband, Tim, and their children, Drew and Rachel; Lori Thompson; Jerry Thompson, Jr. and wife, Toni, and their children, Tyler and Kirsten; and sisters, Leona Willett and Frances Boyd.
A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at Central United Methodist Church in Salem, Va. with Rev. Bryan Buckles officiating with visiting hours and a reception to follow the service. The interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Central UMC, 428 S. College Ave, Salem, Va. 24153 or Amedysis Hospice, 5221 Valley Park Drive Suite 2, Roanoke, Va. 24019.
The family wishes to thank Coach Corbett and others for their help, as well as Amedysis Hospice for their loving care.
The family of Mr. Thompson is being served by John M. Oakey & Son in Salem, where online condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnmoakey.com.