Joseph Locke Thompson

Joseph Locke Thompson, 81, of Decatur, GA peacefully passed June 2, 2020. Joseph “Joe” was born February 8, 1939 in Washington, D.C. to the late Colonel DeWitt Thompson and Cleo Elizabeth Spainhauer Thompson. He was the brother of the late DeWitt Thompson II.

Joe leaves his loving memories to be cherished by: his beloved wife of 60 years, Patricia Ann Autry Thompson, daughter Kelly Ann Thompson, three nieces: Tracy Elizabeth Thompson, DeAnna Thompson Doty, MaryAnn Rene’ Thompson, a nephew, DeWitt Thompson III (Alison), several great nieces and nephews, and treasured friendships.

Colonel DeWitt Thompson was Assistant Chief of Staff, G-4 Section Headquarters in Berlin, and under the direction of General Lucius D.Clay, was responsible for organizing and executing the Berlin Airlift. Joe and his brother were the first American dependents to fly during this post-WWII mission.

Joe was in the Lee Edwards High School class of 1957 in Asheville, NC. He studied at Duke University and served in the National Guard for many years before moving on to his laudable 45 year career with Oxford Industries and Lanier Clothes.

Joe Thompson loved all people and had a charismatic natural inclination toward leadership and community building that extended beyond the workplace. He founded the Rehoboth Community Association and fought tirelessly against the DeKalb County School Board with hopes of saving Rehoboth Elementary School in Decatur, GA. He also loved working with Habitat for Humanity and volunteering as “the sound guy” for several clogging teams.

Joe’s passion for music was most profoundly felt when he played music for others. His banjo was a conduit of infectious joy that spread like wildfire within his care facility and beyond. The happiness Joe Thompson brought to others is immeasurable, and he will undoubtedly live forever in our hearts.

We will gather in the months ahead for a musical celebration of life to accompany Heaven’s eternal bluegrass jam. You can stay in touch with Kelly at tkellann2@gmail.com.

Words fail to express gratitude for cardiologist Alexander A. Halkos, MD for decades of loving care. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Heart Association in memory of Joe.