Tommy Lee Thompson

Tommy Lee Thompson, age 82, of Crete and Peotone, passed away Saturday, November 2, 2024 in Olympia Fields. He was born July 1, 1942 in New Orleans, LA to the late Richard and Flora (nee Ferguson) Thompson. His family relocated to Chicago and then Crete during Tommy’s childhood.

Tommy graduated from Crete-Monee High School and went on to receive his Master’s Degree. After college, he returned to his alma mater and spent his teaching career as an English, Speech, and Drama teacher in the Crete-Monee School District. During his time there, he directed many plays, coached the Speech team, inspired and educated thousands of students. It was also during his years at Crete-Monee that he formed friendships that became as close as family, lasting over 50 years. After retirement, he stayed active as a substitute teacher, journalist for the Peotone Vedette, and director for local community theatre groups. Tommy was a Christian. He was a former member and elder of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Peotone and current member of St. Paul’s UCC of Monee. He sang in the choir at both churches, and sang with a community choir group for several years, as well. He truly lived in the moment - enjoying time spent with his family (especially his grandson), good food, good friends, celebrations, and adding to his collections of books, decorations, and fancy ties.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and the love of his life, Laura (nee Braaten) Thompson, who he married on May 29, 1965 in Dubuque, IA.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Melora (Patrick) Bales of Peotone; a grandson, Dylan Oak Bales of Peotone; a brother, Richard (Nao) Thompson of Bend, OR; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, William Thompson; and a sister, Betty Brownfield.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, donations to the family are appreciated.