Dr. Harold B. Thompson

Dr. H. B. Thompson, Sr., of Cleveland slipped into the presence of his Lord on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 surrounded by loving family members. He was born September 1, 1926 in Gotebo, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Beulah Thompson, a sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Carl Gilchrist, a brother, Harley Thompson, grandson David Butts and Edna Esau Thompson, his wife of 63 years. Dr. Thompson is survived by his children and spouses, Hal and Grace Thompson of Anderson, SC; Kathy and Alton Anderson; Carla and Barry Meyers; Ron and Theresa Thompson all of Cleveland, and Michael and Dianne Thompson of Melbourne, FL. 12 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, one sister-in-law, Margaret Curto of Michigan, a double first cousin, Lonnie Deaton of Sevierville, TN, numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends. He was a proud U S Navy Veteran serving in the South Pacific during WW II. Although he would shy away from the designation, he was one of the "greatest generation" serving his country. His greatest joy was the times spent with his family and closest friends during special seasons of the year. He loved playing a number of games, but his favorite was one he affectionately called "Wahoo"! It could get rowdy and exciting when that game was put on the table. He was a credentialed minister with the Church of God for over 70 years serving as an evangelist, pastor, World Missions Representative and State Overseer in Idaho-Utah, Illinois, North Carolina, Northern California, Southern Ohio and North Georgia for a total of 22 years. During his active ministry he was responsible for the organizing of more than 160 local Churches of God. He was a most effective ministry mentor, long before mentoring was fashionable. Literally dozens of pastors and ministers had their start and/or advancement in ministry because of his guidance and influence. He has joined that innumerable host waiting to welcome other faithful soldiers home and enjoying the company of those friends and loved ones preceding him there! The services celebrating Dr. Thompson's life will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2015 at Westmore Church of God in Cleveland. Visitation will be from 12-2 pm with the service beginning at 2 pm. Interment will be at 11:30 A.M., Monday, April 13, 2015 at the National Cemetery in Chattanooga. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Church of God World Missions, P.O. Box 8016, Cleveland, TN 37320, Israel Initiative (Project number 102-9378-001) Arrangements are being handled by Grissom-Serenity Funeral Home & Cremation Services.