Jerry Leonard Thompson

With heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of Jerry Leonard “JT” Thompson. Jerry passed away on February 29, 2024, in Broomfield, Colorado at his daughter’s home. His wife, Sue, daughters, nearby grandchildren, and many family members were close by. At the time of death, he was 85 years old.

Jerry was born to Demorie Maxwell “Buck” Thompson and Marietta (Boisvert) Thompson on Friday, September 23, 1938, in Cullman, Alabama. He moved from his birthplace to Craig in the 7th grade. He graduated from Moffat County High School with the Class of 1956. After his college graduation from Saint Bernard College in Cullman, his time in the Army National Guard, many chartered flights, and countless auto dealer trades, he always looked forward to coming home to Craig.

Jerry married his wife of 58 years, Donna “Sue” Bilsing on August 28, 1965. They honeymooned at Flaming Gorge Reservoir on a $5 bill that Jerry had in his pocket after forgetting his wallet. The years that followed gave way to the birth of (three) daughters. Each one knew that Jerry loved them the most.

During his 85 years of life, Jerry wore many hats and accomplished many things. He was a skilled pilot, a mayor, a city councilman, a business owner (many times over), a farmer, and a die-hard Alabama football fan, “Roll Tide”. Jerry was a risk-taker, a decision-maker, an entrepreneur, and an influencer. Jerry was a good man, with an even temperament. He was quick to listen and slow to speak. He spoke with a southern drawl, a smile on his face, and the sharp wit to accompany it.

Some of the businesses that Jerry owned were Barrett’s Men’s Store, the Scoreboard Bar, The Hangar, and the Centennial Arcade. In 2013, Jerry sold Craig Ford after 38 years as an owner operator. In 2022, he retired full-time from farming and auto dealer trades to move to Broomfield to be closer to family.

During his time serving the Craig Community, Jerry helped navigate major economic swings that saw the addition of a power plant, water and sewage treatment plants, major subdivisions, construction of City Hall, and the addition of cable television. He was a leader and a servant, providing leadership during times when resources were strained, and a community needed direction. For the years of service and dedication, Jerry and Sue were humbled when recognized by community leaders that declared December 15, 2022, as “Jerry and Sue Thompson Day”.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father (Buck), his mother (Marietta), many uncles, aunts and friends. Jerry was survived by his wife Sue, who recently passed as well, his sister Joann (Dave) Hunt & family, daughters Pamala (Greg) Felderman, Penny (Brad) Rose, and Tia Thompson. Jerry is survived by (6) grandchildren, Audrey (Fiancé Neal DeBuhr) Felderman, Alexa (Derek) DeJoe, Jackson Rose, Maya Shaw, Katharine Felderman, Adler Felderman, and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry’s wishes were to be cremated. A joint Celebration of Life will be held in Craig, June 8, 2024, at the City Hall at 10am, with a reception to follow for Jerry and Sue. In lieu of flowers, a yearly memorial scholarship has been set up in Jerry’s name for Aviation and Automotive students. Donations can be sent to: Colorado Northwestern Community College Foundation, 500 Kennedy Drive, Rangely, CO 81648. Memo: Jerry Thompson Memorial Scholarship Fund