Ronald J. Thompson

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ronald J. Thompson, who departed this world peacefully on February 15, 2025, at the age of 84, surrounded by his devoted family in the comfort of his home. While our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life well-lived—one filled with faith, integrity, work-ethic and an unwavering dedication to family.

Born on February 25, 1940, in Danville, VA, Ronald was the beloved son of the late Ollie White Thompson and Willie Lynwood Thompson. A man of deep wisdom and boundless generosity, he never met a stranger. He had a rare gift for making everyone he encountered feel like an old friend, welcoming them with warmth, humor, and kindness.

Ronald leaves behind his cherished wife and best friend of 59 years, Judy Thompson, whose love and partnership were the foundation of his life. He was a devoted father, grandfather, mentor, and friend, whose legacy of kindness, perseverance, and faith will live on through those who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his loving children, Jefferson Dale Thompson of Danville, VA; Robin Thompson Terry (Jeb Terry Jr.) of Manhattan Beach, CA; his dear sister, Elaine Shelton (Samuel) of Leesburg, FL and her son Jimmy Burgess of Braddock Heights, MD; and his adored grandchildren: Emerson Terry, Harper Terry, Jeb Terry III, Madison Thompson, Mallory Thompson, and Zoe Thompson.

Ronald grew up on a farm in Keeling, VA with his parents and also his grandparents, Ethel Lewis Thompson and Jefferson Davis Thompson; plowing tobacco fields with a mule and hand plow at a very early age. He graduated from Dan River High School in 1958 and Virginia Tech University in 1963. Ronald served 6 months active duty with the USCG and an additional 5.5 years in the reserves as cook to the officers.

Ronald was a visionary in real estate, building not only homes but also futures. As a respected real estate owner, operator, and developer, he found immense fulfillment in helping countless families achieve the dream of homeownership. His business endeavors were not always made alone, but through strategic partnerships and support from Sammy Saunders, the late Earl Wyatt and his administrative assistant of 40 years, Marie Richardson. His entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen were matched only by his honesty, generosity, and tireless work ethic.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ronald’s greatest commitment was to his faith. A pillar of Old Mill Primitive Baptist Church in Keeling, VA, he served as a deacon, mentor, treasurer and faithful member. His devotion to his church was not just in words, but in action—he lived out his faith through humility, service, and unwavering support.

Ronald had a deep love for working with his hands and nurturing life from the soil and was a lifelong pupil of American History. An avid gardener, he took immense pride in cultivating vibrant flowers, lush shrubs, and a bountiful vegetable garden that flourished under his care. His meticulously maintained yard was not just a testament to his skill but also to his patience and appreciation for life’s simple joys.

Yet, his greatest joy was his family. He adored spending time with his grandchildren, passing down stories of his childhood, imparting wisdom, and sharing his love of nature, faith, and hard work. Whether teaching them the value of perseverance or the importance of faith, Ronald’s lessons will live on for generations.

The Thompson family extends their deepest appreciation to the angels who provided care and comfort to Ronald in his final days: Ann, Sheritta, Wanda, Tammy, Susan, Amy, Sharon, Debra, Ty, Yvette, Karen, Cathy, Brenda and Mountain Valley Hospice (Rasheen, Tosha, Amber and Sherri). Your kindness and dedication allowed him to remain in the home he loved, surrounded by those who cherished him.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Townes Funeral Home, Danville, VA, officiated by Elder Lonnie Mozingo and Elder Jamie Hancock. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM at the same location. A private interment will follow at the family cemetery in Keeling, VA. The family will receive visitors at their residence.

If you would like to make a donation in Ronald’s memory, please donate to Old Mill Primitive Baptist Church or Mount Hermon Fire and Rescue. In honoring Ronald’s legacy, the family encourages all who knew him to carry forward his spirit of kindness, faith, service and work ethic. Though Ronald has left this world, his impact will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memory Wall at www.townesfuneralhome.com The Thompson family has entrusted arrangements to Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, 215 West Main St., Danville, VA, 434-793-1211.