RAY-THOMPSON-Obituary

RAY THOMPSON

Phoenix, Arizona

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Phoenix, Arizona

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RAY THOMPSON Ray, a journalist, was a true pioneer of TV news in Arizona. He was the first anchorman at KTVK, Channel 3 and the first news director/anchorman at KTAR, now KPNX, Channel 12, both of Phoenix. Later, Ray was promoted to Vice President of News at Channel 12. A member of the...

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Dear Phoebe, I was so saddened to hear of Ray's passing recently. What a fine gentleman he was to work with at Channel 12. Ray taught this print journalist from the AZ Republic a lot about broadcast journalism. I didn't recall that he was from Minnesota, also. I am so sorry for you and your family that this gracious and kind man is gone. I remember one incident late in the afternoon when we were preparing for the 6 o'clock news when suddenly a group of firefighters came rushing into...

Dear Mrs. Thompson and Melody,
My sincere condolences on the loss of your husband and father. Melody's stories about her dad were steeped in great affection. His contribution to the Valley lives on.
Best regards,
Carol Soderquist

My husband and I enjoyed watching Ray on the news, both Channel 3 and Channel 12. I remember Ray always saying after Dewey Hopper did the weather and commented about a 10% chance of precipitation, Ray would always come back with "it's those 10%ers that will get you every time". So sad to hear of his passing. God Bless Ray and his family, wife Phebe, children, grandchildren and greatgranchdildren. You have many many great memories of Ray to cherish. Robert and Phyllis Boyse, formerly of...

Ray was "the news source" during the 8+ years I worked at Channel 12 from 1967 to 1975. To me Ray was exactly what a news anchor should be and no one ever changed my mind in all the ensuing years. I've missed him on the news but I am glad I got to work with him. Phebe, the world is a sadder place now. My heartfelt condolences.

To Phebe and Family- You were the greatest neighbors and memories of me growing up in Paradise Valley. Ray was a wonderful man Phebe, and family you will be in my prayers. love you guys. Larisa Darby your neighbor that lived right below you on mocking bird lane.

Ray and I worked on several radio spots when I was ad director for the old Russ Lyon Realty Co. He was a true professional with impeccable timing. A 30-second spot was delivered in thirty seconds, in one take. He had no notes and easily fit each commercial into its allotted time. Ray was a gentle man who earned the respect of his associates and the trust of his audience.

I had a chance to know Mr. Thompson personally 40 years ago. He and Mrs. Thompson let me date their daughter for several years. A great family and what an brilliant man and caring father.

My depest sympathy to Ray's family.I would never miss his newscast when he was on KTAR. I think he was the greatest newscaster.RIP

Phebe,melany, Michelle,Joel,Randy and Family so sorry to hear that Ray has passed on sincerely John W.Finkelstein.