James Lawrence Thompson, Jr., 71, of Dunbrack Road, Covington, Virginia, died February 1, 2021 at Lewis-Gale Alleghany Hospital in Low Moor.

James was born on March 1, 1949 in Alleghany County, a son of the late James Thompson, Sr. and Geraldine Carter Thompson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, David Thompson, Sr.

He was employed by Covington City Schools for 43 years, retiring in 2010 as the head custodian for the Jeter-Watson and Edgemont school facilities. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, camping, and trips to South Carolina with his family. When not outdoors, he could usually be found enjoying one of the classic western movies he loved so much.

Mr. Thompson is survived by his wife of 53 years, Brenda Fridley Thompson; two sons, Jerry Thompson III of Summerville, SC and Chris (Rebecca) Thompson of Covington; a daughter, Kimmy Thompson of Lumberton, NC; 11 grandchildren, Andy Thompson, Crystal Thompson, Chris Thompson Jr., Austin Thompson, Adam Thompson, Marvin Thompson, Carl Lee Tucker, Myrtle Ann Thompson, Jamie Blankenship, and Andrew Fisher; nine great-grandchildren, Isiah Thompson, Grayson Thompson, Sean Tucker, Braxton Roach, E.J. Amiley, Rowen Thompson, Kelsey Venskoske, Chad Wheeler, and Bentley Thompson; one brother, Gene (Susie) Thompson; one sister, Virginia Thompson, both of Covington; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held Friday, February 5, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in the upper mausoleum at Alleghany Memorial Park with the Rev. Johnny Mines officiating. Entombment will follow immediately after.

The family will receive friends on Friday morning from 9:30 a.m. until service time at Arritt Funeral Home, Covington, Virginia.