JACKSON DOYLE THOMPSON

Colonel (Ret.) Jackson "Jack" Doyle Thompson went to be with our Lord and Savior on December 24, 2024. He was born on April 24, 1934, in Greenback, Tennessee, and is the beloved son of the late Hazel and Robert Thompson. A proud 1951 graduate of William J. Hale High School in Maryville, Tennessee, Jack went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Tuskegee Institute in 1956. While at Tuskegee, he was recognized as a Distinguished Military Graduate and was an honored member of the Pershing Rifles. Jack dedicated 26 years of distinguished service to his country as a Signal Corps officer in the U.S. Army. His military career took him around the globe, including multiple tours in Vietnam, Korea, and Europe. Following his retirement from active duty, he continued serving his country through his work with TRW and Northrop Grumman, where he played a key role in facilitating communications for the space shuttle program. Jack was remembered by all who knew him for his unwavering honesty, quick wit, and ability to reflect and self-correct when needed. He had the courage to step forward in difficult moments and the rare gift to both lead and inspire those around him. His presence was one of strength, integrity, and purpose. Above all, Jack was a devoted husband and father. He married his college sweetheart, Marilyn, in 1956, and together they shared 68 years of loving marriage. Jack is survived by Marilyn and their three sons, Robert (Kathy), David (Kamilla), and Jeffery (Cindy). He leaves behind a legacy of love through his eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. In retirement, Jack found great joy in traveling the country in his motor coach, cruising the seven seas, fishing, and playing poker with his fellow veterans. Colonel Thompson will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday, June 11, at 9 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund at www.vvmf.org.