Thomas Gerber Thompson, age 90, a resident of Mobile, Alabama for 65 years, was born on February 14, 1933 in Akron, Ohio, and passed away peacefully on January 4, 2024 after a brief illness.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, James Gerber Thompson and Flossie Bright Thompson Welker Beckart.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, June Thompson, and his two children, Sue Livingston (Burl) and Thomas D. Thompson (Dixie). He had five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. He was affectionately known to them as Pawpaw.
Tom graduated from Buchtel High School in Akron, Ohio. He attended The University of Rochester and Eastman School of Music and graduated from Akron University with a degree in business where he was a member of Theta Delta Chi Fraternity.
Tom married June Evans when they were both 19. After college, Tom went to work for Firestone in Warren, Ohio. He was then hired by B. F. Goodrich, and they moved back to Akron, Ohio. He was transferred to Dallas, Texas and later transferred to Mobile, Alabama where he resided until his passing.
He was a very astute and accomplished sales representative, and he was revered by many in the industry as an "expert" in the field of industrial conveying systems. Tom built close relationships with his customers and distributors. He was responsible for mentoring many sales representatives employed by B. F. Goodrich and many of his distributors. He took a special interest mentoring young people in their jobs, whether it be his company, a distributor or a customer. While he supported multiple distributors throughout his territory, he built a special and lasting relationship with Turner Supply Company, where his son ultimately chose to build his career of 45 years in sales. Tom was a problem solver for his customers and was considered an excellent sales representative. He was a "company man" and the consummate sales professional. He was successful by every measure in life. He especially kept his company peers, friends, and family relationships close.
Pawpaw was such a kind and patient man who loved his family dearly. He loved his wife and was an excellent father to Tommy and Susie. On the day of his passing, he asked how "his family and wife" were doing by name and how was Turner Supply Co. doing.
We would like to express our appreciation to the nursing staff of Springhill Senior Residence. While there were too many to name, we would like to especially thank Hannah Parker and Juwana Johnson for their kindness and gentle care of our father.
February 14, 1933 — January 4, 2024
A private family graveside ceremony will take place in Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
