Arthur William "Tommy" Thompson Jr.

Tommy Thompson, of Ft. Barnwell, North Carolina, passed away at his home on April 16, 2025, at the age of 80. A beloved husband, father, son, grandfather, brother, friend, and neighbor, Tommy touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tommy was born to Arthur and Eula Thompson on March 22, 1945, in Baltimore City, Maryland. At a young age, he moved between North Carolina and Maryland before graduating from Grainger High in 1963. Tommy was raised in the Lutheran faith and was a member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. His unwavering faith was a guiding light throughout his life, providing him with strength, comfort, and purpose.

After graduating high school, Tommy proudly served his country by joining the United States Navy. While enlisted in the Navy, he met his wife, Barbara “Bobbie.”

Throughout his 10 years of service, he had the opportunity to travel the Mediterranean and live in Rota, Spain, with his family—experiences that enriched his life. Following his time in the military, Tommy built a long and dedicated career at the DuPont plant in Kinston, North Carolina, where he retired after 30 years of service. His strong work ethic and commitment left a lasting impression on those who worked alongside him. Tommy also served with the Ft. Barnwell Fire and Rescue Departments, as well as the DuPont Rescue Squad. He deeply valued the camaraderie and sense of purpose shared with his fellow firemen and squad members.

Tommy was a man of strong character—hardworking, determined, and always dependable. He could be stern when it came to doing things the right way, but those who knew him best also knew his loving heart and deep commitment to providing for his family. In his free time, he enjoyed collecting model cars, taking vacations, completing crossword puzzles, and riding old steam trains. Above all, Tommy cherished his close friends and family, especially his grandchildren. He took great pride in being a part of their lives, celebrating their milestones, and creating lasting memories together.

Tommy is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Eula Thompson, and family members Mary and William Cleve, Leslie Heath, Bob Lammert, and Larry Ipock.

Tommy is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Barbara Cauley “Bobbie” Thompson, who stood by his side through every season of life; his daughter, Tammy Triplett (Coy); his son, Brian Thompson (Jennifer); and his sister, Barbara Mae Smith (Ronald). He was a proud grandfather to Taylor Johnson (Chris) and Christian Triplett (Kayla); step-grandfather to Elizabeth Letchworth (Peter) and Gill Jarman (Kayley); great-grandfather to Addison Triplett, Charlie Johnson, and Baby Girl Johnson (to be); and step-great-grandfather to Alice Jarman and Wesley Jarman. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Hallie Mae Heath, Martha Lammert, and Nancy Wiggins (Donnie); his brother-in-law, J.P. Cauley (Mary); and special friends Charles and Becky Willis. Tommy is lovingly remembered by extended family including nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as cherished friends, coworkers, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the hospice nurses, aides, and support staff at 3HC for their compassionate care and support during Tommy’s final days.

Tommy’s legacy is one of love, faith, and loyalty. He will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the joy he brought to others simply by being himself. He is deeply missed and will be forever loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tommy’s name to the Ft. Barnwell Fire and Rescue Department—a cause close to his heart and his hometown.

The family will receive visitors on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Cotten Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. A service will begin at 3:00 p.m. Following the service, Tommy will be laid to rest at Ft. Barnwell Baptist Church Cemetery, 9335 NC-55 Hwy W, Ft. Barnwell, NC 28526.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Tommy Thompson.