Danny Lewis Thompson

In Loving Memory of Danny Lewis Thompson

March 22, 1957 - January 12, 2026

Danny Lewis Thompson, 68, of Graham, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on March 22, 1957, in Jumping Branch, West Virginia, Danny was the son of the late Daniel and Ila Thompson. He began his working life in the coal mines, a testament to the grit and work ethic that would define his entire character. Danny later served in the Army Reserves, which helped him pursue his education, ultimately earning an Associate Degree with a major in Radiology.

His distinguished career in medical imaging spanned decades of technological change and dedicated patient care. He spent many years with Shared Medical before joining the team at Duke University Hospital. He retired from Duke with over 30 years of experience, having earned the deep respect of his colleagues and the heartfelt gratitude of the countless patients he helped throughout his career.

His dedication extended beyond his career and into his community. An active and faithful member of Hawfields Presbyterian Church, Danny found great purpose in his church life. He was also a regular face at the Liberty Showcase, where he spent many evenings enjoying the music in the company of his loving wife.

While he was a serious professional, Danny was happiest when he was outdoors or in his shed tinkering with his latest project. He was a strategic thinker who never turned down a game of chess, and an avid fan who spent his weekends cheering on college and pro football.

His favorite time of the year was the annual family beach vacation, where he could be found soaking up the salt air with those he loved most. Nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren-though, in his trademark wit, he often reminded everyone that the best part of being a PawPaw was that "he could always give them back" at the end of the day.

Danny is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Drema; his two children, Lance Thompson and his wife Allexis, Desirae Shelley and her husband Kyle. He was the proud PawPaw to four grandchildren: Gavin, Logan, Troy, and Kylee. He is also survived by his brother, Eddie Thompson, and two sisters, Carolyn Cartwright and Betty Saunders. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Cathy Willey and Evelyn Stone.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 12-3pm located at Hawfield's Presbyterian Church 2115 NC-119, Mebane; NC 27302.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Danny's memory to the ALS Association or Hawfields Presbyterian Church.