Fred P. Thompson

Fred Priestly Thompson, Jr. transitioned from this earth to be with his Risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on November 9th, 2010. A memorial service will take place Saturday, November 13th, 2:00 pm at the First Congregational Church of Saint Joseph, MI, with interment to take place in Johnson City, TN at a later date. The family asks that all memorial gifts be directed to Emmanuel School of Religion, 1 Walker Dr., Johnson City, TN 37601. Those wishing to sign Fred's Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. His gracious Heavenly Father provided him with a rich life full of love, family and wonderful opportunities to serve Him. Fred was born to Fred Priestly Thompson, Sr. and Mattie Leonard Thompson on November 15th, 1917. He and his beloved wife, Dorothy Williams Thompson had the joy of celebrating 70 years of marriage September 30th, 2010 with family. They had four children, Janet Thompson McClain (Dan) of Avon, IN, David Thompson (Oralee) of Burr Ridge, IL, Donald Thompson (Cindy) of Crawfordsville, IN and Dennis Thompson (Paula) of Saint Joseph, MI. They were also blessed with 11 Grandchildren and 11 Great Grandchildren. Dr. Thompson earned degrees from Pacific Christian College, Pepperdine University and Butler School of Religion. He was bestowed with an Honorary Degree in Theology from Milligan College. Doctoral level studies were continued at the University of Chicago and at Garrett Theological Seminary. This academic work prepared him for his calling at Christian Churches in Elsinore, CA, Greenwood, IN, Chicago, IL and Kingsport, TN. In 1969 he was called to assist in launching Emmanuel School of Religion, a graduate seminary, in Johnson City, TN. He became President of the school and was Professor of Christian Doctrine during his 15 years there. Although he oversaw the construction of a beautiful building for the school and increased faculty members and student enrollment, his greatest contribution to the school was his interaction with the students. Students appreciated his willingness to share a broad range of concerns from academic and spiritual to social and economic. To be able to think for oneself would be the final test for any student of Fred Thompson. Dr. Thompson was a contributing editor to Christianity Today and wrote regularly as a columnist for Action Magazine and Christian Standard. In addition he published Biblical Prophecy, The Holy Spirit, and What the Bible says About Heaven and Hell. His loving spirit and wit will be missed by all who knew him.