Claude Thompson, Jr.

Claude Thompson Jr. ("Junie") of Newport News, Virginia joined Heaven's shipyard of angels on Saturday, June 13, 2020. Born in Mount Olive, North Carolina on August 9, 1953, to Claude Sr. and Viola Thompson, Claude worked tirelessly in whatever assignment he was given. His place among workers who now rest with Christ has been well-earned. Baptized at an early age at Portsmouth's Third Baptist Church, Junie gave his life to Christ and began his personal journey of Christian service. He was an active youth member of his church, even winning MVP as a player on the men's softball team. In high school, his favorite subject was history. Up until the week before he passed, he offen recited every word of Dr. Martin Luther King's 'I Have a Dream' speech. He loved watching the news, listening to music) and singing Whitney Houston-with whom he shared a birthday! Junie loved God first, his family, the shipyard, food, music and money-in that exact order. Lest we forget, Junie could TALK; once you got him started, he would talk from sun up to sun Gown! Junie proudly served and dedicated 45 years of his life-from April 1972 to April 2017 -to the Surface Preparation and Treatment Department at Newport News Shipbuilding. When Jume wasn't working tirelessly at the shipyard, he loved watching professionaT boxing. His lifelong dream was to be a professional boxer. His favorite boxers included Muhammad All, Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker. All who were gifted with Junie's presence can attest to his genial spirit, sweet smile and jovial sense of humor. He is loved by many. Junie is survived by his sister and brother, Sherri Thompson and Darryl Thompson, Sr. (Helen), nieces Hannah Jones, Adrienne Rolon (Joshua) and Nerissa Thompson, nephew, Darryl Thompson, Jr., (Tiffany) and a host of aunts, uncles, great meces, nephews and cousins, as well as several friends and coworkers. The family would be remiss if they did not especially thank all of the dedicated caregivers who helped to make Junie's last days warm and comfortable. Thank you to Dr. Mark T. Fleming, Dr. Maril Berniger, Dr. Kelly Byrum, Riverside Rehabilitation Center, Dr. Sharon Petitjean, Dr. Syed Q. Kirmani, Hidenwood Retirement community, Chiquita, and Personal Touch Hospice. Thank you also to Kay, whose thorough, kina touch and tender care helped Junie to feel especially at home. Junie was one who saw life differently than most-his perspective was different. It is said there is always "one" in every family. Junie was the "one" who kept momentos of everything. From everyone's baby pictures, to weddin~s-you name it. Whatever special occassion there was to be had, Junie was the "one' who captured and saved it all! Junie was the "one" who supported you when others gave up on you, the "one" who saw life through a different lens than most. He was designed and created with a different perception than others and because of this he was often misunderstood and judged for being himself. But he was never outwardly judgmental or critical of others. Not one to complain, he was an easygoing and patient person. May his non-judgement of others teach us to have that same perspective on life; to not be critical, but to consistently serve others and not fear what makes someone different from us. To embrace them and be open to learning valuable lessons. Although a gentle giant, he roared whenever needed for his family and friends, gave generously, and shared with others whatever he had and whatever he could. Because fie was so ~enerous with what he had, Junie's life was a testament to living simply. As Paul says, in this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life" (1 Timothy 6:19).

Claude Thompson, Jr.

August 9, 1953 - June 13, 2020