Casper G. Thompson

Elizabeth City resident

Mr. Casper Garnett Thompson, age 81, of 408 Maryland Avenue, Elizabeth City, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013 at his residence. Celebration of life will take place today, at Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church at 11 a.m. He will lie in state from 10 a.m. until time of service. Casper Garnett Thompson was the third child of the late John Richard Thompson Sr., and Mattie Perry Thompson.  He was born on March 9, 1931 in Elizabeth City. He was educated in the Pasquotank County – Elizabeth City Public School system.  At an early age, he became a member of the Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church. Serving Olive Branch was what he loved most. His greatest joy was the upkeep, maintenance and well-being of his beloved Olive Branch. Casper was a true servant of the church and remained a lifelong supportive and participating member until his health began to decline. He served on the capacity of the Board of Trustees, and was its chairman for a number of years. As a lifelong member of the Senior Choir, he was often the featured soloist and served as the choir's president. His beautiful melodious bass voice was enjoyed by many. He was a founding member of the Evelyn A. Johnson Community Singers under the direction of Evelyn A. Johnson and later, Billy C. Hines.   For over 34 years, Casper was employed by the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank County Public Schools.  He retired as Supervisor of the Inner Office Services, where he was known for his leadership ability. He was recognized and was known as a "team player" with outstanding work performance beyond measure.  The school system proudly described him as a "shining example for and member of "Team Elizabeth City – Pasquotank." On the civic level, he actively worked as a member of the local Urban Advisory Committee.   Casper leaves a legacy of love and memories to his wife of 66 years, Evelyn Louise Shannon Thompson. The couple was blessed with three children, Wayne, Kenneth and Terry. He loved his family dearly, especially his grandchildren, Tracee, Bryan and Krysten. He reared his children with high standards and expectations, to which they did not falter. Casper would not accept anything less. He was a devoted brother as well, caring for his two sisters, Geneva and Ella Louise, who he affectionately called "the girls."   He was an avid sports fan, especially when it came to watching those Cleveland Browns. He was a pitcher for the local semi-pro baseball team. It was said that Casper was one of the best African American pool players in Elizabeth City, if not the best. He once played the nationally known Wimpy Lassiter of Elizabeth City. Casper's family and friends loved his wit and dry sense of humor which kept you in stitches, even in his last days of life. A gifted debater, never did you have to wonder what he was thinking, because in his very matter-of-fact way, he would certainly let you know. He was affectionately called "Dump," a shortened version of "Dumper," by his God sons Allan, Tony, nieces and nephews.    Casper was fortunate to have a family who kept him safe and comfortable at home. He often publicly remarked "I have some good children." He was grateful for his family's love,  dedication and devotion to him. He leaves to mourn his loving wife, Louise; two sons, Wayne E. Thompson (Shirley) of Forestville, Md., J. Kenneth Thompson of Elizabeth City; one daughter, Terry V. Thomas (Bradley) of Washington, DC; three grandchildren, Tracee Sanders (Damion), Bryan Thomas and Krysten Thomas of Washington, DC; one great-grandchild, Brooklin Rose Sanders of Washington, DC; two sisters, Ella Louise Collins and Geneva Mendoza of Elizabeth City; one aunt, Virginia P. Jones of Elizabeth City; one sister-in-law, Caldonia Overton of Elizabeth City; two God-sons, Allan Brickhouse of Versailles, Ky. and Anthony Brickhouse (Shajni) of Port Orange, Fla.; two nieces, Sheila D. Mendoza of Greenville and Ruth Ann Warren of Elizabeth City; Jeffrey Ann Holloway of Morehead; and  Mary Walker of Elizabeth City.   His was a life well lived, a "good and faithful servant" whose memory will be cherished by many for years to come. May he forever rest in peace. You may sign the online guestbook at www.riverscommunityfuneralhome.com.  Rivers Community Funeral Home, is expressing sympathy through sincere service to the Thompson family.