William M. (Bill) Thompson passed from this life to be with his Savior
in the early morning hours of January 6, 2022.
Bill was born to Jesse and Maggie (Johnson) Thompson on
September 15, 1926 in Wooley Hollow in the Centerville Community -
Faulkner County, Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his parents,
brothers Ana, Warren and Cleland; sisters Carrie, Marie, Viva and
Lorene. Bill was also preceded in death by his wife of 13 years,
Carolee Warrinner Thompson and his wife of 33 years, Doris Ruth
Burgert Thompson.
Bill was a generous person. He supported several charities for over
50 years – most helped ensure that people did not go hungry,
especially small children.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Wichita
where he served on several boards and committees. He was head
usher for 21 years and donated countless hours in building up keep
after he retired.

Bill was an active member of the United Methodist Men's ministries
organization. This group nominated and supported him as a John

Wesley Fellow. He was very honored and thankful to be part of this
prestigious society.
Bill was always a fan of Gospel music and traveled many places to
listen and participate in musical events. He was also a lifelong fan of
the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.
Bill attended Conway High School in Conway, AR graduating with the
class of 1944. He began his military service on January 5, 1945
serving in the United States Army. He attended basic training in
Camp Walters in Texas. He then served in the Philippines and Japan
during WWII. In Japan he served with the 376th Harbor Craft
Company 7th Army Major Port Division.

After being honorably discharged from the Army in November 1946,
Bill attended the Arkansas State Teachers College for two years,
after which he taught farmers through on the job training. Bill also
was employed by Arkansas Power and Light company. Then he
worked for McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis for 10 years. He was then
transferred to Wichita, KS where he worked an additional 30 years as
a Senior Quality Assurance Representive.

Bill and his wife Doris retired on the same day in 1990 and enjoyed
20 years of traveling and volunteer work together.
Bill is survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins plus
countless friends.