Obituary of Lawrence O. Thompson

Lawrence Odell Thompson, age 78, of New Port Richey, FL passed away July 24, 2022 after a brief illness. Larry was born in Washington, DC and spent his formative years in Kentucky and Northern Virginia. After graduating from the former TC Williams High School in Alexandria, VA, he entered the US Marine Corps and proudly served his country in Vietnam and Japan. After his tour of duty, he began a career in the airline industry, first with TWA then with American Airlines. He enjoyed a 40 year career spanning between Dulles International Airport in Northern Virginia and Tampa International Airport in Tampa, FL. Upon his retirement in 2006, he remained in New Port Richey, FL. During his retirement years, Larry enjoyed visiting friends, swimming at the gym and gathering with fellow veterans at the VFW. He worked diligently on his home landscape and looked forward to installing his Christmas lights and holiday blow up decorations every year. He generously gave to Toys for Tots every holiday season, shopping himself for toys and gifts for families in need. However, fall and Halloween were his favorite time of year and he loved helping at the annual local church pumpkin patch. While he wasn’t a fan of technology, Larry kept in touch regularly with family and friends almost daily with phone calls, where he enjoyed reminiscing and walking down memory lane. An avid fan of trains, Larry collected a wide variety of model trains, which he proudly displayed. He enjoyed visiting Homosassa Wildlife Park and visiting its famous hippo, Lucifer. He was also a NASCAR fan, loved Elvis and Donald Duck, and got a kick out of magic and card tricks. Larry will be deeply missed by his wife of 45 years, Charlotte, his son Harold and daughters Nina and Karen. He is also survived by five sisters, six grandchildren, five great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. His trusty feline pal, Herbie, will miss having him by his side. Because Larry loved the fall with the changing colors of the leaves and crisp air, an interment service will be held in October in Luray, VA. He will be laid to rest with his mother and granny, as were his final wishes. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Larry’s name to Toys for Tots (https://www.toysfortots.org/donate/forms/tribute/).