Jacksonville, IL – Norman L. “Bud” Thompson, 88, of Arcadia, died Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Walker Nursing Home in Virginia. He was born December 20, 1935, near Arenzville, the son of Irland H. “I.H.” and Viola Edwards Thompson. He married Alice Peck on November 22, 1956, at the Arenzville United Methodist Church in Arenzville, and she survives.
Bud is also survived by two sons, Bruce (Sherrie) Thompson of Arcadia and Andy (Teresa) Thompson of Ashland; five grandchildren, Alison (Justin) McGrew of Good Hope, Sarah (Justin) Moritz of Holly Springs, North Carolina, Jacob Thompson of South Jacksonville, Kaitlin (Drake) Houser of Timewell, and Samantha Thompson of Ashland; six great-grandchildren, one brother, Rich (Karen) Thompson of Virginia, and one sister, Lenabelle (deceased husband, Ronnie) Burrus of rural Jacksonville. He was preceded in death by one sister, Nancy J. Dickerson.
Bud served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, as a radio operator stationed in Puerto Rico. Following his service, Bud worked at Anderson-Clayton in Jacksonville and later at F.S. in Virginia. In addition, Bud farmed for many years in the Arcadia community. Later, he worked for the State of Illinois Bureau of County Fairs and drove for Braner Trucking.
Bud raised and raced horses for many years. He was a member and actively involved in the United States Trotting Association and the Midwest Racing Association and enjoyed visiting with fellow horsemen across the country. Bud was also an active member of Liter Baptist Church.
A graveside service and military rites will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Arcadia Cemetery. Following the service, the family will meet friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Williamson Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Memorials are suggested to Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice or Liter Baptist Church. Condolences may be left online at www.airsman-hires.com.