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Hank Thompson Obituary
Thompson died late Tuesday at his home in the Fort Worth suburb of Keller, said spokesman, Tracy Pitcox, who is also president of Heart of Texas Records.
"He was battling aggressive lung cancer," Pitcox said Wednesday in a statement. "He remained conscious until the last couple of hours and passed away peacefully at about 10:45 p.m. on Tuesday night surrounded by his friends and family."
The last show Thompson played was Oct. 8 in his native Waco. That day was declared "Hank Thompson Day" by Gov. Rick Perry and Waco Mayor Virginia DuPuy.
Fans loved Thompson's distinctive gravelly voice and his musical style, a mix of honky-tonk and Western swing. He was named to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1989.
His first recording was "Whoa, Sailor" in 1946. That year, he started a band called the Brazos Valley Boys, which won Billboard magazine's touring band of the year award 14 consecutive times.
Thompson had 29 hits reach the top 10 between 1948 and 1975. Some of his most famous songs include "Humpty Dumpty Heart" and "A Six Pack to Go."
His album "The Wild Side of Life" reached No. 1 in 1952. It inspired a famous "answer song" written by J.D. Miller, "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels." Recorded by Kitty Wells, the song was the first No. 1 hit by a woman soloist on the country music charts and made Wells a star.
Thompson grew up a fan of Gene Autry, which fueled his love of the guitar. By the time he finished high school, he was playing on a local radio show, where he was featured as "Hank the Hired Hand."
He served in the Navy, and studied electrical engineering at Southern Methodist University, the University of Texas and Princeton.
Thompson considered a career in engineering, but remained in show business. He caught the attention of Tex Ritter, who helped him get a contract with Capitol Records.
Pitcox said Thompson requested that no funeral be held.
A "celebration of life," open to fans and friends, will be held Nov. 14 at Billy Bob's Texas, a Fort Worth honky-tonk.
Survivors include his wife, Ann. He had no children.
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
161 Entries
Jerry Richardson
December 4, 2020
when I was a young kid living in the east Texas area, I listened to the local radio station in Gladewater, KSIJ Radio, and I loved listening to Hank Thompson, Hank Williams, and others. One of my favorite songs was "RUBBY DUB DUB THREE MEN IN A TUB" by Hank Thompson. I sang with Mr. Thompson every time I heard one of this songs and visited the KSIJ radio station with my mother and asked the DJ there if he would let me sign the song with Mr. Thompson on the radio. He, of course, would not let me do that. I left there heart broken. But I followed Mr. Thompson's career through out his life. Its a shame, but we have lost that style of music now but the memories are still there.
Thank you.
Judy Thomas
September 24, 2018
RIP to the "other" Hank.
Marcia Archer
February 24, 2018
I'll always miss you .
Marcia
LANE PRUETT
May 24, 2017
Love you, Hank. You and your music will live forever.
How you can show support
William Mendez
February 18, 2016
I just found that Hank Thompson was a cousin of my grandpas and I never knew that. But I play guitar now. Thompson legacy will live on forever.
Harry Simpson
November 6, 2014
Fair winds and following seas sailor.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Nancy Markle
October 24, 2014
I loved Hank Thompson and his music. I must have seen him in concert a half a dozen times or more. Tall, handsome and what a voice.
Sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed.
April 2, 2010
For Hank...you added your
own unique touch to
Country Western music.
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Peggy Willis
February 23, 2010
Hello Ann,
I have thought of you both of an on for many years. What wonderful memories that were made in the 60's. This Peggy, in Houston. ( the little drumers friend) I am so sorry to hear of Hanks passing. I just heard about it today. I pray that you are doing well through it all. Hank and all the boys were so special. Hank was a very kind and gentel person to around. A true country gentelmen of pure class. I still have the albums he gave me in those days. They will be treasured all the more now. I pray Gods blessings and strength for you. Maybe we can meet again soon. Peggy( Louvier) Willis, Pearland Tx.
Peggy Willis
February 23, 2010
Hello Ann,
I have thought of you both off an on for many years. What wonderful memories that were made in the 60's. This Peggy, in Houston. ( the little drummers friend) I am so sorry to hear of Hanks passing. I just heard about it today. I pray that you are doing well through it all. Hank and all the boys were so special. Hank was a very kind and gentel person to be around. A true country gentelmen of pure class. What fond and wonderful memories I have in my heart. I still have the albums he gave me in those days. They will be treasured all the more now. I pray Gods blessings and strength for you. Maybe we can meet again soon. Peggy( Louvier) Willis, Pearland Tx.
Theo Walz
September 24, 2009
I attended 3 of Hank's concerts. I will always love his voice, music, and band. I am 66 years old and have passed the love on to my 39 year old son and 13 year old grandson. Hank Thompson's music is timeless. Thanks for the memories, Hank.
Mike Wallace
September 7, 2009
Hank holds a special place in my heart and memory. In 1988 when I was a struggling musician playing the Kern River Motor Inn in Bakersfield, we were fortunate enough to have Hank and his band playing in one of the banquet rooms as we were in the lounge. It worked out great! When he was on break, he came and listened to us. When we were on break, we returned the favor. Thank you Hank for that bright spot in my life.
Chuck Wickhamshire
September 3, 2009
Hank Thompson will always be a very special singer to me. I listened to his music all of my growing years and really enjoyed ever moment of it.
I was at one of his concerts in Salt Lake City at a place called the Terrace. I was amazed when he walked up to me from the backside and tapped me on the shoulder, I turned and found him looking at me and smiled. I didn't realize how tall he was up close up.
I had a great chance to talk to him, it was just wonderful. He was a great entertainer, and I really enjoyed ever song he sang. Very smooth music.
Hank You are missed very much.
Jessica
April 9, 2009
Hank was the a very unique and special indivdual, I will always cherish the times we spent with him, he is very much missed. He will never be forgotten.
Robin Daggs Powell
November 6, 2008
I grew up listening to your music and going to your concerts through my mom and dad, Warren and Mary Daggs. It was a pleasure to know you and enjoyed your music.
Robin Daggs Powell
Warren & Mary Daggs
November 6, 2008
I will always remember going to the OU/TX football games with Hank. Mary and I always enjoyed the music!
steve easterling
October 24, 2008
Hank Thompson was truly a country singer. He is very must missed.
T Pacer
June 9, 2008
I was looking on the Internet for Hanks tour calender, only to discover his obituary. Now I cherish his memory even more. I grew up in McAllen, TX and have enjoyed listening to the wonderful and great Hank Thompson's songs & music for over 65 years. I love instrumental music of all kinds but like only a few singers such as Gene Autry, Slim Whitman, Jim Reeves, Eddie Arnold and my all time favorite - the Hank Thompson. I finally got to meet Hank at the Grapevine Opry in early 1990's. Had my picture taken with him & his guitar. In 1998, I saw a display of Hank's CD's in the Health Food store in Keller,TX. I mentioned to the owner, that Hank was one of the few singers I liked and I had not found his latest CD yet. About a month later I was in the store again and the owner gave me Hanks latest CD, autographed to me. The owner would not take any money, saying that Hank gave it as a gift to me. What a rare and unique STAR; a gentleman, kind, caring, humble, patient, very talented and so genuine. My favorite song is "Oklahoma Hills" and every instrumental Hank and his band recorded.
I send my condolences and prayers to your family, that you may be comforted in this time of grief. May God Bless you and give you peace.
M Littlejohn
November 23, 2007
I told a friend just the other day that we needed to find out where Hank is playing and go see him again. Then I found out it was too late. Damn. Hank was one of the all-time greats, a best-of-the-best. He always put on a hell of a show. Western Swing & Honky Tonk has lost one of the last and truest originals. Hell be missed for a very long time. I'll have a few whiskey's with him tonight.
Debbie Gardner
November 21, 2007
Hank will be missed by so many, including me.It always brightened my day, when I would answer the phone at the travel agency and hear that deep unmistakable voice say, "Debbie Darlin', This is Hank". I always smiled and thought, "Of course its Hank, who else could it be?" I can still see him sitting at that blackjack table on the cruise ship. I was sitting at the 1st chair chirping "Hit me, Hit Me" at every opportunity, wasn't my money, what did I care? Hank was at the 4th chair and he really did care. Ever so sweetly he says, "Debbie, Darlin', might wanna watch what you doin' there, hun. You are takin' my cards." I thought, "Huh? Your cards? Aren't they my cards until I pass? Hit me!!" My Dad later explain to me the finer points of serious blackjack. Basically, rookies shouldn't play with the big dogs. OK, lesson learned, Hank. I appreciated the fact that you didn't change travel agencys when we got home. I had a big time, even if I cost you a hand or two. You weren't my easiest customer, but you sure we the best. Guys like you and Dad, are supposed to live on forever. Look Dad up for me, will ya?
Love,
Debbie Darlin'
"Hank" 1967 Cains Ballroom
November 15, 2007
Richard Osborn
November 15, 2007
I will miss you and your music alot. I enjoyed listening to you for years on end.
Craig Copeland
November 14, 2007
Hank, thanks for the memories! I was more fortunate than most in the fact that I grew up with the Thompsons. Bud, Hanks father, rented a garage from my grand father and I spent a gazillion hours with that kind, gentle man. From time to time Hank would come through Waco, on his way to another date, and stop by the garage. He would visit with his folks, and I was always amazed that he would treat me as kinfolk. Hank was a wonderful son! I have loved Hank's music from childhood, but what I wil always cherish are the memories of the tall man with the booming voice, and winning way. Ann, rest assured that the Lord will be with you.
J.D. Northcutt
November 12, 2007
Thanks for always being such a great friend to our family. I'll always cherish the boots you borrowed for a performance and later autographed.
Austin Crehan
November 12, 2007
A true icon of good music and singing.
Ruby Breece
November 11, 2007
What a great talent,who shared it with all the people.We will miss him as an entertainer and friend.
My deepest sympathy to his family.
Linda Young
November 11, 2007
Another great legend who awaits us in heaven now. I can hardly wait to be with all of them again. Hank Williams was one of the greatest and I am proud to have been a part of his erra. I look forward to that honky tonk heaven.
See ya soon, Hank. May God bless your wife as she awaits to be with you again.
JEANNE,& HOWARD JOHNSON
November 11, 2007
'THANKS *HANK, FOR BE ING A [good] PART OF OUR LIVES,YOU WAS ONE OF THE BEST, RIP 'HANK, WE LOVED YOU MUCH
Charles McEachern
November 11, 2007
I enjoyed your music as I grew up.
you will be missed. I know you will sing great for our LORD.
Tina Sparger-Buice
November 11, 2007
Hank was a wonderful man and will be missed on earth. He is in heaven now and singing with the Lord. We will always have his music and will never forget him. I am so very thankful that I had the opportunity to hear him and to meet him. I have loved his music my entire life. My parents loved his music and met Hank in Alaska in the 50's and were able to meet him again in Dallas and were thrilled to see and hear him again. My sympathy to Ann, my prayers and thoughts are with you as you go through this most difficult time. Please know that I am thinking about you, praying for God to give you strength and help you during this time. The world will always remember what a true angel Hank was.
Mary Dixon
November 11, 2007
Hank you will greatly be missed.I love your music and always will . My prayers are with your family and your band members.I have pictures of memories Thank You Hank for the music that helped us get through the hard times.
Robert Fricks
November 11, 2007
Sorry to hear of the lost of Hank Thompson. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Robert & Barbara Fricks
sue ward
November 11, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
buddy@sharon reed
November 11, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
sue ward
November 11, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Judy
November 11, 2007
MEMORIES...On Christmas mornings throughout my childhood, year after year, I woke up to mama and daddy loudly playing Hank's "It's Christmas Time" album. Such a special memory for our family.
RIP HANK THOMPSON - thanks for the memories.
Thomas Little
November 11, 2007
So long to one of country musics finest performers. Tell Hank and Lefty hello.
Shirley Hughes
November 11, 2007
May you rest in peace.
Donald Easley
November 10, 2007
I remember when Hank sang at the grand opening of the New Enlisted Mens Club, at Pearl Harbor Naval Station,Hawaii. He was breath of sunshine, for all the country/western swing fans. We will miss this wonderful talent. May God Bless You.
Becky French
November 10, 2007
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
L Anderson
November 10, 2007
With deepest sympathy to the family of Hank Thompson.
Charles Calcote
November 10, 2007
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Robert & Shirley Draper
November 10, 2007
Ann, we are Shirley & Robert Draper, good friends of Soap Hardman. We spent good times with you and Hank at the deer lease in San Saba. We are sending our prayers to help you at this time. I sang Hank's song "Rub-A-Dub-Dub" as I washed my little girl's hair each Saturday night. We will miss Hank, his music will live on.
M.PRITCHETT
November 10, 2007
REST IN PEACE TO A GREAT SINGER.
Billy Joe Gabriel
November 10, 2007
Words can little express the feelings of sorrow with losing Hank and his wit. He was so genuine and friendly. When the Lord needs somebody to sing about Texas, he will certainly call for Hank Thompson. I had the privilege of meeting, photographing, and writing about Hank many times. He was a true gentleman and Texan. Ann, I will keep you and Hank in my prayers.
Nelda Gardner
November 10, 2007
We had the honor and priviledge of being Hanks travel agency for several years in Keller. Any time Hank came in our office or called us on the telephone, he did not portray himself as a "celebrity" who expected the agents to treat him as such. He was always just a kind, patient, and FRIENDLY customer who neither asked nor demanded any special favors. Another thing, when Hank sang his songs, he sang the words with such clarity that you never had to wonder what the song was about when he finished like some of the newer "country artists" of today. Ann, I can sympathize with you on your loss. Although he is gone physically, his songs and legacy will live on forever.
Liela Williams
November 10, 2007
I was in Sperry,Okla 2004 'sat nite'sitting on a hay bale waiting on Hank to walk from his bus to perform. When I saw him and stood to possibly shake his hand,'this gracious man' stopped shook (my) hand and in his deep voice with a wonderful smile said, 'what a beautiful lady'and walked on. Hank sang and signed autograph's and sang more ..Couple's were waltzing around the bandstand to his 'Beautiful Music'.. Hank- your wonderful and will truly miss you, but your music will go on in our "heart's"..God Bless your Wife and Family....
Charlie and Linda Collier
November 10, 2007
It was a priviledge and honor for us to have had Hank as a true friend. He was one of the finest gentleman I have ever known. He never let his fame mar his gentle, caring nature
Robert Zirbel
November 10, 2007
I have listened to your music for years, have most of your records and been envious of your remarkable talent. Now you will be entertaining the angels. Cheers, God Bless and all our love, Bob, Sandy, Etceteras
SO SILENT WAS YOUR LEAVING
by Robert M. H. Zirbel
So silent was your leaving,
Not a sound to say goodbye,
Just a silence that you left behind
And that silence seemed to say
“Please, please…
Do not grieve…
For I just had to go.”
So silent was your leaving,
Uttering not a painful cry
Nor even a fearful moan.
And that silence seemed to say
“Please, please…
Do not grieve…
For I just had to go.”
That silence is still not shattered
Even though my tears pour down
To join with all the unsaid words…
Those special, special words…
That I had always meant to say.
If I had cried out “Please, please don’t go.”
Would you have stayed?
No, I think not
For you had been called…
And you knew you had to go.
Yes, you knew you had to go.
Mick Addington
November 10, 2007
Growing up in Oklahoma, Hank was a household name.. Farewell my good man. Mick
judy robbins
November 10, 2007
We grew up listening to Hank Thompson. It's a shame that the younger generation isn't aware of Hank Thompson's music. Thanks Mom and Dad for intoducing his music to all of your children.
Janie Gilchrist
November 10, 2007
Mr Thompson was truly a "Country Gentleman". I have enjoyed his music since I was a little girl. He will be missed. He is now with many more of the greats of Country Music. Mrs. Thompson you have my sympathy. But just know, we will all be reunited with our loved ones in days to come. God Bless you and your family and great host of friends.
Mel Stephen
November 10, 2007
HANK THOMPSON NO DOUBT ONE OF THE BEST ENTERTAINERS OF THE MUSIC INDUSTRY...YOU WILL BE MISSED THANKS FOR YOUR MUSIC AND SONGS TO LIVE ON...
Evelyn Cross
November 10, 2007
Please know that my prayers are with you. Hank was a wonderful singer and I enjoyed his music.
Peggy Clark
November 10, 2007
I always enjoyed the voice of Hank
Thompson and his smile. He could
sing so good. He will be missed
by so many of his fans. Just remember he is no longer in pain
and that helps to ease the pain of
giving up a loved one.
Phyllis Oates
November 10, 2007
My sympathy to the family. I always enjoyed Hank's music. And over the years having the pleasure of associating with a former fiddle player of Hank's - Kenneth "Little Red" Hayes - and hearing of the times they played together - Hank's music holds even a closer place in my heart.
kenneth ricker
November 10, 2007
THE FIRST TIME I HEARD HANK SING WAS IN CHARLESTON SC.OVER THE YEARS I HAVE JUST ABOUT EVERY RECORD SONG .THE SONG I PLAYED TO WAS CALLED JUST FOR ATTLE WHILE BRINGS BACK LOTS OF MEMBERS FOR ME
Wanda Cwiklo
November 9, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
barbara mills
November 9, 2007
I am so sorry for your sudden loss of your loved one, may you be comforted by prayer and GOD's future promises and his tender mercies.
Allan Werst
November 9, 2007
My sincere sympathy. As a former long time National Accounts Manager at Capitol Records, I've seen many of the great old country artists pass on. Faron Young, Tex Ritter, Roy Acuff, Buck Owens and now Hank. I'm sure they are having a grand reunion up there.
Sincerely,
Kenny Adkins
November 9, 2007
My prayers are with the family at this time.We will miss you.RIP my friend.I loved your music.
Dorothy Juutilainen
November 9, 2007
My prayers are with the family. I know he was one of the best Country singers as I remember my parents listening to him on the Grand Ole Opry on the radio in the late 40's and 50's. I am sure he is playing for them again in The Big Sky above.
patti roberson
November 9, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Felton - Drifter Floyd
November 9, 2007
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Tom LeGrand
November 9, 2007
I will never forget the times I was blessed enough to spend with Hank and Ann in Puerto Vallarta. His giving nature and wonderful sense of humor made him a pleasure to be around. Truly a gifted gentleman, he will be missed. Ann, I pray you will find solace in remembering the good times and the joy you both shared. May God bless you, Hank.
Audrey Leming
November 9, 2007
I saw Hank in 1969 or 70 in Rapid City, SDak and have loved his music ever since. Sympathies to his family.
judy hansen
November 9, 2007
i am a great fan of hank thompson i love all his music. i have always wanted to see him in person.i never got the chance. i am sorry for your lose. for i lost my son a year and 2 days ago. may the angels get to sing with him in heaven. from judy hansen in salt lake city utah
Bill Wagner
November 9, 2007
Having booked Hank to play at our oldest festival in Pennsylvania, I found him to be not only a great performer, but a gentleman with a wonderful sense of humor as well. Pick and sing for the Heavenly Host now dear friend!
jerry hunt
November 9, 2007
i liked hank and heard him ever sinch i was 6 years old and iam 58 years old i liked it when he sung in the oklahoma hills
novell henwood
November 9, 2007
we lost one of the greatest singers
that I know of.My prayers go out to his family.The last time I saw him perform ws in Grand Prairie,tx.
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
November 9, 2007
Rest and enjoy the peace.
Gwen Voegtle
November 9, 2007
Sorry to hear of the loss of Hank Thompson. Peace to his family.
R.I.P
Gwen
Bob Reed
November 9, 2007
Hank
and Ann were our guests for two of the first three annual Hank Thompson
Tributes here at Fiddlers Valley RV Resort in Mountain View, Arkansas.
Having known and worked with Hank for many years I can say that the
world not only lost one of the very top vocalists in the business, the
world lost a fine man. A man that I will always remember. A man that
has millions of fans who will be in mourning for a long time. The 4th
Annual Hank Thompson Tribute will be May 1-2-3, 2008 here at Fiddlers
Valley. Mr. Hank, thanks for the wonderful music. Ann, should you need
anything at all, please let us know. May God comfort you. Love, Bob
Reed and all the other Hank Thompson fans from around the world!
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
November 9, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the Thompson in the loss of Hank.
Jack Rutter
November 9, 2007
Drove all the way from Bristol, Tn. to Oklahoma City to listen to Hank at ehe Trianon Ball room. Lifelong memory
Froggy Worden
November 9, 2007
I became a fan of Hank's when I heard "Whoa Sailor" in Lamesa, Texas. I couldn't wait until I learned the lyrics and chords to that song. I had the pleasure of meeting Hank at different gigs and taking the official photo last year when he was presented with his "Walk of Fame Star" in the Historic Stockyards. He will always be in my music library.
November 9, 2007
GOD BLESS. WE KNOW NOW GOD DOES LOVE COUNTRY MUSIC
stan evans
November 9, 2007
Never was able to attend a Hank show. Loved his music, always turned the radio up when he was on. We share in your loss of this great man.
Mary Smith
November 9, 2007
To the family,
You have my sympathy on the loss of your loved one. Mr. Thompson left his mark in the community who loved his music. In the future, God has promised that "no one will say I am sick" and those in the "memorial tombs" will come out to a resurrection. This promise brings us comfort and gives us hope.
Sherri Bickta
November 9, 2007
I met Hank and his wife at a little fair in Kempton, PA, some years ago. I had always wanted to see Hank in person, because I loved his music. I enjoyed the show, and especially enjoyed meeting him. I am so lucky and blessed to have had that opportunity.
May God bless and be with his family in this sad time. Hank will never be forgotten
Lee Cousins
November 9, 2007
Hank - I have loved you all my life. there was never a time you wern't in it. May your soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace +
Virginia Anders
November 9, 2007
I would like to express my sympathy to Ann and all of Hank's family. I really loved Hank's music and I danced many hours to his music at Danceland in Fort Worth back in the 40's and early 50's. He was great and I will miss his singing.
Ronald Myrick
November 8, 2007
Hank, I have listened to your great music since 1947. Country music has lost a true star who can not be replaced. Hank you will never be forgotten.
Betty Presley
November 8, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry for your loss. Hank was a fine entertainer. I enjoyed many performances at Cains Ballroom in Tulsa in the late 60's, also several New Years Eve celebrations in Ft.Worth/Dallas with Hank and band.
Doug Bennett
November 8, 2007
Thank you Hank for all you did. You helped pave the way for a lot of folks and you made my life and many others better as you did it. What greater accomplishment could there be. God rest your soul.
Bill Fead
November 8, 2007
Thanks for your Military Service.
Past Commander V.F.W.
Kenneth Hernandez
November 8, 2007
I'm from Bakersfield, Ca. and, of course we just lost the legendary Buck Owens. Well needless to say we just lost another one of country music's greats today with Hank's passing...My whole family and I listened to Hank for as long as I can remember (For atleast 40 years) and collectively we would like to offer our deeepest heart-felt sorrows to his wife and all other family members.
RONALD YANCEY
November 8, 2007
GOD BE WITH THE FAMILY DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME. WE ALL LOVED HANK AND WILL MISS HIM DEARLY. THANKS TO THE FAMILY, FOR SHARING HIM WITH US....RON
June, Scott & Alan Anzalone
November 8, 2007
Hank was a real people person who never seemed to care if the place he was performing had a population of 25 or 25 million, you got his best not only with the performance but with the downright friendliness of a new friend. Our town is about 500 population, but when we have our annual Picnic anywhere from 1,000 to 2,000 can show up. I think it was 1989 Hank Thompson appeared at our Picnic as the entertainment. After a great show, he stuck around and visited for hours until he had signed every autograph and took as many pictures as was requested, then autographed them. A couple months after coming to this tiny little town (though there was the usual huge crowd), Mr, Hank Thompson was voted into the Hall of Fame. If ever anyone deserved it, it was Hank. I also like to think about laughing with him when it turned out that Gene Autry was both our idol. A lot of people preferred Roy Rogers, but Hank and I knew who the real king of the cowboys was. During everyone's life you will probably get a chance to touch real greatness. I feel my time was 1989.
Oh yes, my sister is up there waiting for Hank, and I'm sure she will want to remind him of the time he made her so happy by visiting and singing a special song for her and her newlywed husband. This kind of goodness cannot be found often with big stars. Just another thing to make Hank so very special.
Melodie
November 8, 2007
The music and the memories will live on........
My sympathy to the family. I am so very sorry for your loss.
jerry sutherland
November 8, 2007
Rest in peace,Hank,Thank you for fifty years of wonderful music.My Prayers are with the family.
Geranda (jean) Everly
November 8, 2007
I loved Hanks' music since I was 12 years old and knew all the words to his songs, I grew up country and still am even though I live in Ohio , my heart loves country. I rememember his "Wild Side of Life" even now ,a half century later.We have lost a great singer but Heaven has gained another great voice for it's choir of country greats. God bless and keep each of you, and may you know that Hank is with in each whisper of a breeze. Blessings,and love, Jean
Bruce Lindsey
November 8, 2007
One of the three great "Hanks" of country music. I still remember all the words to "Oklahoma Home Brew".
RIP
Bruce Lindsey
Cheryl Sublett
November 8, 2007
I grew up on your music, it brought so much joy to our family. You will be missed. We will never stop listening to your wonderful music.
Cheryl Sublett
Houston, TX
Preston Daggs
November 8, 2007
I grew listening to your music. I was introduced to you by my Dad, Warren Daggs. I saw many of your concerts, and got to visit with you many times. What a wonderful person you were. You will truly be missed.
Preston Daggs
Irving, Texas
Louise Livingston
November 8, 2007
My sympathy to the family of Hank Thompson. I grew up listening to Hank Thompson and enjoy his music. My mother enjoyed dancing to his music and when I hear his songs today, it makes me think of her.
Warren Daggs
November 8, 2007
Hank,
Mary & I always had a great time with you at your concerts. And we had great times in Ada Oklahoma, and at the State Fair of Texas watching OU & Texas play. It was an honor to know you and be a friend. You were one in a million. We will miss you.
Warren & Mary Daggs
Irving, Texas
Don & Ann Gentry
November 8, 2007
Our sympathy, We had the pleasure seeing Hank on the court square in West Plains,Mo. this past summer. A real legend, he will be missed.
Donald and Lois Mueller
November 8, 2007
I was sure surpried and sad to dicover your obituary on the computer today. You are my favorite country singer and it's the worlds loss that the golden tones of your voice will create no more
Jeff Carlen
November 8, 2007
I grew up in Brooklyn, NY. Hardley a hotbed of country music but there was a station in New Jersey that played Hank's music and I loved it. Still do!
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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