William Quincy Thompson “Iabasis” (Little Deer), a citizen of the Penobscot Nation, passed away July 25th , 2021. He began his journey to the other side with his loving wife Lisa May Thompson next to him. He was Born March 23rd, 1967 in Portland, Maine to Ssipsis of Panawahpskek and Kenneth Thompson of Freeport.
Many knew William as Bill Thompson but he also went by the nicknames of Billy, Billy Hot Dog, Willies and many others. He was proud to be a part of the Turtle clan. In his early life he traveled to many parts of Indigenous country with his mother, learning the ways of his people that helped to shape his character and the love that he had for them.
He had a passion for creativity and found all sorts of ways to express himself through writing, inventing and exploring this earth. He also expressed himself through his cooking and was never hesitant to feed anyone walking through the door. His approach to life affected everyone who was fortunate enough to meet him. He had a way with words, always spoke with intent and led with his heart and an open mind. His humor brought people from all walks of life together.
Bill was a trusted friend, colleague, Tribal leader, and strong advocate for nationwide Tribal sovereignty. Not just for Penobscot Nation or Tribes in the state of Maine, but all Tribes throughout the United States. He was former Vice Chief of the Penobscot Nation for 10 years. He lent his voice and his time to organizations, such as the National Tribal Air Association, serving as Chairman of NTAA for many years, the Tribal Air Monitoring Support Center, the National Tribal Caucus, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Indoor Environments Division in Washington D.C.
He is survived by his wife, children and sisters and their families. Lisa May Thompson his wife; his daughter Jasmine Adelaide Thompson: son Gabriel Louis Paul, his wife Nicole Paul and their son Kkino Paul; his sister Kimberly and husband Robert Bryant their daughters Ganessa and Leya and son Lloyd; his sister Pam Cunningham and her sons Jacob and Henry; sister Susan Thompson. The love he had extended further than blood. He was a fierce protector for those that he cared for, always making sure they felt secure.
Please come and celebrate the life of Bill, at the Sockalexis Arena, 7 River Street, Indian Island, Maine on July 30th, at 11:00 am. There will be drumming, ceremony, stories, food and laughter. Let us come together to honor a man who cared for so many. Let us remember his light that he shined upon this earth. May we forever remember him as the “Good Neighbor”.
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