Willie F. Thompson

Willie F. Thompson was born in Crenshaw County, Alabama, to the late Bishop and Vilettie Bodiford Thompson. One of eleven children, he grew up cherished within a large and loving family.

Willie, affectionately known as “Rag,” shared sixty-seven years of marriage with his late wife, Mary Nell, whom he lovingly called “Scoot.” Together they worked diligently to create a stable and comfortable life. Mary Nell retired from Timken Roller Bearing in Canton, Ohio, while Rag retired from Republic Steel Company in Massillon, Ohio. Over the years they acquired several rental homes and enjoyed traveling together.

Rag took great pleasure in fishing with his brothers, following sports, gardening, and spending time with family. Shaped by his childhood during the Great Depression, he developed lifelong habits of frugality and resourcefulness, earning the fond nickname “King Clutter” from his siblings. A kindhearted man, he was always ready to help those in genuine need. He assisted in raising several nephews and supported his parents in caring for his younger siblings. Frugality was a guiding principle he embraced with pride and purpose.

Rag leaves to cherish his memory his brothers Elisha Thompson and James T. (Hope) Thompson, his aunt Merdis Bray, and Ozie Franklyn. He is also survived by devoted nieces Andrea and Merqua, nephews Sedrick and Bruce, and two loving sisters-in-law, Evelyn Byrd and Ogeary Thompson. A multitude of nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and extended family shared in his life and cared for him deeply.