Elmo Graham Thompson

E. Graham Thompson of Baton Rouge, affectionately known by family as "E. G.", died peacefully at his home on November 1, 2021. Born on February 4, 1937, he is survived by Suzie Thompson, his wife of 61 years; daughter, Ellen Wolfe (Wes) of Dallas; sons Adam Thompson (Merri Hope) and Chris Thompson (Debi) of Baton Rouge. He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Mac Thompson, Mitchell Thompson, Mollie Thompson, Blake Thompson, Ross Thompson, and Graham Wolfe.

Graham spent his childhood in North Little Rock, Arkansas. He attended Vanderbilt University where he honed his leadership skills by serving as president of his fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon, and the Interfraternity Council. He was tapped for membership in both academic and leadership organizations including Phi Beta Kappa and Omicron Delta Kappa. He was voted Bachelor of Ugliness, an honor given to the outstanding graduating male student. In 1959, he finished his college career at the top of his class graduating Summa Cum Laude and was awarded the Founders Medal. He was also a graduate of The Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University.

After college, he fulfilled his obligation to Uncle Sam spending two years in the United States Army at Fort Benning, Georgia. He then joined the family business, Capital City Casket Company, in Little Rock.

In 1973, he joined the staff at First American National Bank in North Little Rock where he found his calling working in the banking industry. He was passionate about banking. One of his greatest joys was mentoring young bankers and teaching them to "do right". He was also an instructor in the LSU Graduate School of Banking summer courses for 20 years.

Graham's banking career spanned nearly four decades. He served as City President of Whitney Bank, Baton Rouge and Chief Credit Officer/Risk Manager for First Commerce Corporation, New Orleans. During his distinguished banking career, Graham served as CEO of three banks, senior leader of two banks, and market president of one bank. He also served on the Board of Directors of seven banks.

Professional and civic activities were hallmarks of his career. He was Treasurer, Board Chairman, and State Government Relation Committee chair for 17 years for the Louisiana Bankers Association. He also served as Board Chairman of both the Baton Rouge Area Chamber of Commerce and the Monroe, Louisiana Chamber of Commerce. He served nine years on the Board of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, two of those years as chairman. Graham was also elected to three terms on the Board of Education in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Above all else, he was a man of faith. He unabashedly loved Jesus. He leaves behind a legacy of faith and integrity treasured by his family. Visits with his children and grandchildren were often finished with his parting words of "Don't do anything stupid!".

Graham was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Baton Rouge where he was an Elder, a Trustee, and a member of the First Presbyterian Church Foundation.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 8, 2021 at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church, 763 North Boulevard, preceded by visitation from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM. Arrangements are under the direction of Rabenhorst Funeral Homes and Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to the First Presbyterian Church honoring his memory.

"It's not how you start, it's how you finish."