Arlen Rivers Thompson

Arlen Rivers Thompson was born in Waco, Texas, on September 10, 1928, and passed away peacefully at home in Sugar Land, Texas, on October 27, 2025, following a lengthy illness, with his devoted wife by his side.

After graduating from Central High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Arlen attended the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Finance. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant in the Quartermaster Corps and was a veteran of the Korean War.

Arlen enjoyed a long and successful career in the petroleum industry, beginning with Anchor Petroleum and later with Union Texas. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own company, El Dorado Petroleum, which later became El Dorado Energy. Under his leadership, the company flourished, and Arlen continued to guide its success until his well-earned retirement at the age of 85.

Outside of his professional life, Arlen was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in golf, hunting, and outdoor sports. A longtime member of Riverbend Country Club since 1963, he cherished the friendships and camaraderie he built there over the years. He also loved to travel and explore new places, always eager for the next adventure.

Arlen was predeceased by his parents, Norton and Willa Mae Thompson; his sister and brother-in-law, Janis and Graham Johnston; and Patricia Thompson, the mother of his children.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda, and his three loving daughters: Cynthia Rebeck (Ron), Arlene Thompson-Brantley (Dan), and Ginger Fish (Rick). He is grandfather to Cody Ferrill, Chris Ferrill (Kristin), Natalie Liljinwall (Guy), Jordan Brantley, Dalton Brantley (Annie), and Sarah Combs (Will); and great-grandfather to Jack, Nolan, Kamryn, Henry, Samuel, and Baby Brantley, who is soon to join the family.

He is also survived by Linda’s three daughters, Lisa Moore (David), Michele Lott (Greg), and Jennifer Collins (Troy); and grandchildren Alexis, Cassie, Ryan, Tyler, and Colton, all of whom brought great joy to his life. In addition, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and their families, who loved him dearly and will cherish his memory.

Arlen will be lovingly remembered for his intelligence, generosity, and enduring devotion to his family and friends. He lived a full and purposeful life, guided by faith, integrity, and kindness.

Special thanks are extended to his devoted caregivers, Lola, who was with him for two years, and Toyin, for their dedicated and compassionate care. The family also expresses deep gratitude to hospice nurses ‘Nita, Patrice, and Jenny—for their exceptional kindness, support, and care—as well as to Chris from Wound Care. A heartfelt thank-you goes to Linda Fox, who visited faithfully every Tuesday, bringing warmth and comfort to the Thompsons and keeping the family connected.

A graveside service will be held at the family plot at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco, Texas, on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 12:00 noon.

Remembrances may be sent to Child Advocates of Fort Bend, 5403 Avenue H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471.