Richard Irland “Rich” Thompson, 88, of Virginia, passed away Tuesday, November 3, 2026. He was born April 8, 1938, near Arenzville, the son of Irland H. “I.H.” and Viola (Edwards) Thompson. He married Karen Braner on February 3, 1961, and she survives.
He is also survived by three children, Steve Thompson of Virginia, Cindy (Rob) Kilby of Virginia, and Rich (Amanda) Thompson of Arenzville; six grandchildren, Brock (Whitney) Thompson, Jenna (Justin) Sweatman, Alex (Jacki) Kilby, Zach (fiancée, Adison Mayes) Thompson, Brock (fiancé, Jayla Waid) Moore, and Caden (fiancé, Taylor Danner) Moore; eight great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Isabel Thompson, Josie, Jaxon, Jettson, and June Sweatman, and Kasen and Jade Kilby; and one sister, Lenabell (deceased husband, Ronnie) Burrus.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Norman “Bud” (surviving wife, Alice) Thompson; and one sister, Nancy Dickerson.
Rich graduated from Virginia High School in 1956 and went on to serve in the United States Army from 1956 to 1959. Following his military service, he worked for F.S. before driving a truck for Anderson Clayton and Nestlé. Rich also farmed in the Arcadia area with his family Rich had a lifelong passion for horses and spent many years raising and racing racehorses. He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren participate in sports and cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals. He was a member of Liter Baptist Church.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Williamson Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Arcadia Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026, at the funeral home. Casual attire is preferred by the family. Memorials are suggested to the Triopia Boosters Club. Condolences may be left online at www.airsman-hires.com.