William Hugh Thompson

Hugh was born November 12, 1934 in Asheville, North Carolina but grew up in Salisbury. He attended Boyden High School and the graduated from North Carolina State University in 1956 with a Geological Engineering degree. While attending NCSU, Hugh participated in ROTC. Upon graduation, he faithfully served his country for three years in the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division. Next, Hugh worked as a Petroleum Engineer with Humble Oil Company. The military was still close to his heart though and he returned to the Army – serving as a Captain for two years. He received an honorable discharge in 1965 and then began law school at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. He excelled in law school – becoming an Order of the Coif member, serving on the North Carolina Law Review, and receiving other awards. In 1968, Hugh graduated with a Juris Doctor degree. He practiced law in Raleigh until retirement. More recently, Hugh served as President of the North Carolina Bar Association Senior Lawyers Division.

Since 1969, Hugh was an active and faithful member and leader of Millbrook United Methodist Church. He also served in numerous capacities with other civic organizations, and was an avid golfer. Hugh and his wife, Lucille, enjoyed travelling after retirement. They also spent significant time at their Atlantic Beach condominium. Hugh was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a solid anchor in the lives of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.

Hugh was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Jack Thompson and mother, Hazel Werner. Also preceding him in death were his brother Benjamin Wood Thompson and wife, Lib, all of Salisbury.

Hugh is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lucille, son Ty and wife Ja’Ree of Aldie, Virginia, and daughter Kim Samaha. Hugh will be greatly missed by his four beloved grandchildren – Mary and Michael Samaha, and Peyton and Brielle Thompson.

A service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, June 6, at Millbrook United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends and family following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Millbrook United Methodist Church, 1712 East Millbrook Road, Raleigh NC 27609.

Arrangements by Brown Wynne Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent online at www.BrownWynneEastMillbrook.com