Mr. Earl Larry Thompson

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Life Story

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 

On Monday, November 13, 2023, the Angels ushered Bro. Earl Larry Thompson home to be with his Heavenly Father.  He was a beloved and influential leader who left behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and positive change that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on July 1, 1952, in Orangeburg County, the second child and second son to the late Jacob “Preacher” Thompson and Claudia “Jessie” Council Thompson, Earl dedicated his life to the betterment of his community. Known for his unwavering commitment to fostering unity, equality, and prosperity, Bro. Earl played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the Holly Hill Community for over 50 years.  

Earl grew up in the Unity Community and graduated from Roberts High School in 1970.   While in school, he was a member of the marching band, and the trombone was his instrument of choice.  During his younger years, Earl was known as the ultimate jokester among his siblings.  He would make them laugh like no other.  He possessed a natural gift for humor that could turn even the most ordinary moments into hysterical laughter. With his infectious sense of joy, Earl's humorous spirit made him the life of every family gathering.

During the 1970s, Earl became fond of a young lady who was also a student at Roberts High School.  The gorgeous smile and undeniable beauty of Mary Ann Small caught his attention and the two of them became high school sweethearts.  This young love flourished into a beautiful and fruitful 50-year marriage.  They celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on November 3, 2023.

At an early age, Earl became a member of Unity AME Church where he actively served in various organizations and committees.  For over 45 years, Bro. Earl served faithfully as the Protem of the Greater Unity A.M.E. Church Trustee Board.  Under his leadership, whether organizing events, participating in worship, or providing guidance to fellow church members, Bro. Earl Thompson approached every task with unwavering dedication and a genuine spirit of determination.  

A beacon of faith and positivity, Bro. Earl touched the lives of so many through his acts of kindness, words of encouragement, and steadfast commitment to the principles of love and forgiveness. He was a devoted pillar of Greater Unity, leaving a deep-rooted impression on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and serve alongside him.  

Bro. Earl’s influence extended beyond the church walls, reaching into the broader community where he tirelessly worked to make a positive impact.  He was an instrumental asset to the Holly Hill Community’s NAACP.  With his work, he promised to champion equal rights for the citizens of his community and to “advance the interest of colored citizens” regarding voting rights, the educational system, and local employment opportunities.  In addition to working with the NAACP, Bro. Earl worked with the Concerned Citizens Organization.  With this group, he worked alongside Congressman James Clyburn, Senator John Matthews, Councilman Johnny Wright, and Representative Gilda Cobb-Hunter to ensure the furtherance of the residents of Orangeburg County and beyond.

Bro. Earl’s family always thought that he was very business-oriented and possessed the “know-how” on how to get things done.  Together with his supportive and zealous wife, they established Quality Cleaners in 1982 located in Holly Hill, SC.  During their 42 years of being in business, they opened four dry cleaners and became mentors to aspiring entrepreneurs, generously sharing their knowledge and experiences. His ability to inspire others to pursue their business dreams was a testament to both his success and his genuine desire to see others thrive.  Bro. Earl leaves behind a legacy not only as the ultimate jokester but also as a visionary entrepreneur who understood the power of hard work and a strong devotion to the community where he resided. Earl's business expertise was not solely about financial success; it was also a reflection of his determination to create job opportunities for others. His business ventures had a positive impact on the Holly Hill, Eutawville, Elloree, Orangeburg, Bowman, and Moncks Corner areas.

Bro. Earl was the rock of the family and the one who kept the family united and strong.  He loved his wife unconditionally and she was so proud of his six amazing children and his eight wonderful grandchildren.  

Earl is preceded in death by his parents and his daughter-in-love Pamela Cave-Thompson.

His Legacy will continue through his loving and devoted wife of 50 years, Mrs. Mary Ann Thompson of the home; his children: Daryll Thompson of Conyers, Georgia, Latasha (Julian) James, Acworth, Georgia, Erica Thompson of the home, Fredrick (Crystal) Thompson of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Justin Thompson of Holly Hill, South Carolina and Delven Thompson of the home; his grandchildren: DesireèThompson, Daryll Thompson, Jr., Destinee Thompson, Jaiden James, Maya Thompson, Lauren James, Aidyn Thompson and Shyra Thompson;  his siblings: Ammie Lou Boyd, Benjamin (Mary Lou) Thompson, Helen Ruth (Rev. Dennis) White, Joyce Elaine (Whittaker) Vogt, and Timothy Thompson, all of Holly Hill, South Carolina, Martha Ann Cates, of White Plains, New York, and Teresa (Rev. Robert) Valentine, of Suitland, Maryland; His mother-in-love, Jessie Lee Small of Holly Hill, South Carolina; In-Laws: Alma Sampson, Sarah Dailey, Melissa Thompson Moyd, Tommie Lee (Ernelle) Small, Rev. Benjamin (Mildred) Small of all of Boston, Massachusetts, Min. Ike (Jackie) Small of Newark, New Jersey, Leroy (Catherine) Butler, Minnie Pearl (James) Washington all of Holly Hill, South Carolina, Joseph Small of Elloree, South Carolina; a cousin/sister, Alicia (O’Neal) Lambright of Holly Hill, South Carolina along with many other first cousins reared with that “Thompson Sibling Bond.”

He also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, godchildren, cousins, and friends who will cherish these memories.