Mr. Richard Ralph Thompson Jr.

It's with profound sorrow and sadness we officially announce the transition of Mr. Richard Ralph Thompson Jr. 77 of Virgina Beach, VA, formally of Lumberton, NC.

   Dr. Richard Ralph Thompson, Jr. was born in Lumberton, North Carolina, on July 28, 1948, to the late Richard Ralph Thompson, Sr. and Bertie Antley Thompson. Richard transitioned to be with the Lord on Monday, December 1, 2025.

     Richard accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized into the Catholic faith at Saint Francis De Sales Catholic Parish. He graduated from South Lumberton High School in 1966 and later became a proud 1978 graduate of Pembroke State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology.

     After working for Wesley Pines Retirement Center, Richard enlisted in the United States Navy in 1981, a decision that gave him the opportunity to see the world up close, visiting places such as the Holy Land, Monaco, and France, to name a few. He faithfully served his country and retired from the Navy in 1999 with full military honors.

    Following his military career, Richard began working with the Norfolk Public Schools System where true to his dedication and work ethic he “retired” four times. His most recent retirement, in November 2024, allowed him to continue pursuing his love of traveling the world, including his most recent trip to the Islands of Hawaii.

    Richard continued his academic pursuits throughout his life, earning a Master of Science degree in Human Resources Management from Golden State University and later a Doctoral Degree in Theology from Newburgh Theological Seminary.

    Richard is survived by his loving sister, Peggy Thompson; nieces Adrianne Nicholson, Yolanda Demery, and Ashley Thompson-Moran; grand-nieces and grand-nephews Precious Nicholson, Amir McNeill, Chauncey McNeill, Yasmine Parker, Kush Demery, and Asim Demery; and great-nieces Denim Boyer and Kayla Demery. Donald Boddie special friend of the family. He also leaves behind a host of other relatives and friends who loved him dearly.

    May his life of service, faith, and commitment continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

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