Elkin Henry "Hank" Thompson

1930 - 2025

Elkin Henry ""Hank"" Thompson, 95, of Harrison, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Creekside at Rock Springs in Harrison.

He was born September 22, 1930, in Houston, Mississippi, to Georgie Washington and Helen Dora Foster Thompson. Hank grew up in Mississippi and later pursued his education at Memphis State University, the University of Tennessee, and Delta State University, ultimately earning his master's degree in education. On December 20, 1952, in Egypt, Mississippi, he married the love of his life, Miss Florence ""Nickie"" Nichols. They shared 73 years of marriage marked by deep devotion, adventure, and a steadfast commitment to faith and family.

Hank had a heart of service- as was evident in many aspects of his life. Initially Upon completing his time as a Highway patrolman with the State of Mississippi, Hank then faithfully served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he began a long and meaningful career in education. He taught in Pago Pago, American Samoa, and later in the Panama Canal Zone, Republic of Panama, where he helped shape young minds and supported civilian and military families stationed in the region. After returning to the United States, he continued his work in education, teaching at Harrison Jr. High School as a Social Studies teacher with the Gifted and Talented program and later became director of the alternative school. He influenced the lives of countless young people through his patient guidance, quiet leadership, and sincere belief in the potential of every student.

Hank was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Harrison, where he was a faithful member of his Sunday school class. He was a 33rd Degree Mason with the Scottish Rite and a Shriner. He enjoyed ham radio, and traveling with Nickie. Their shared love of adventure took them across the globe-from the South Pacific to Australia, New Zealand, South America, Europe, and four unforgettable RV trips to Alaska. He also enjoyed visiting Ouray, Colorado, one of their favorite destinations. Closer to home, Hank cherished simple mornings visiting with friends at the Town House Coffee Club, where he was a longtime and beloved member. One of his greatest joys in life was watching as his grandchildren grew up and became successful individuals. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Nickie Thompson; a brother, Winfred Thompson; and a sister, Mary Grace Wolford.

He is survived by his daughters, Pam Thompson (Mike) Little of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, and Sharon Thompson (Luciano) Trevisan of Aviano, Italy/Branson, Missouri; his grandchildren, Dr. Jacob (Lauren) Langston and Jillian Langston (Reid) Hunter; and his great-grandchildren, William and Amelia Langston; along with other relatives and friends.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at The First United Methodist Church of Harrison with the Rev. Dr. Angie Gage and the Rev. Dave Smith officiating. Burial will be private in Maplewood Cemetery under the direction of Holt Memorial Chapel.

Pallbearers will be Dr. Jacob Langston, Reid Hunter, Loyd Johnson, Tommy Richardson, Josh Bundy, Hall Borland, Russell Hopkins, and Tony Brown. Honorary pallbearers will be the Town House Coffee Club.

The visitation room will be open on Monday, December 1st, from noon to 4:30 p.m. at Holt Memorial Chapel for anyone wishing to pay their respects.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 1100 West Bower, Harrison, Arkansas 72601 or Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 North Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Florida 33607.

The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.HoltChapel.com.