Gary Lou Thompson

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Gary Lou Thompson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 5th,2025 at his home of 23 years in Virginia Beach, Virginia, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 69 years old.
Born on November 30th, 1955, in Alexandria, Virginia, Gary lived a full and passionate life defined by hard work, deep curiosity, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved. Gary began his journey as a skilled journeyman in carpentry, leaving behind a legacy of craftmanship and care in every beam in board. Never one to stay idle, he later became a mechanic at the family-owned Exxon station, where he inherited not only a skillful hand but a strong work ethic and sense of pride in honest labor. Eventually, Gary took on a new challenge as a bail bondsman, offering second chances and support to those in need – a testament to his big heart and belief in redemption.
History was Gary's lifelong passion, especially the Civil War era. He had an encyclopedic memory for historical facts and could bring any moment from the past to life with enthusiasm and detail. To know Gary was to learn something new, and to laugh – his wit and stories were gifts he generously shared with all who listened.
Gary's love was a quiet but powerful force. He is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Nancalee Thompson; his son Garreth Thompson, and daughter-in-law Justyna Thompson; his daughter Omberlee Hellis, and son-in-law Matthew Hellis. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Izabela and Maja Thompson, and Tobias and Nara Lee Hellis. Sister Teressa Hudson, and nieces Michele Stallard and Heather Ford. A sister-in-law and two brother-in-law's and many nieces and nephews.
Though Gary's physical presence will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely. We remember him not with sorrow, but with gratitude – for life well-lived, for stories well-told, and for a heart that never stopped giving.
A celebration of life will he held at Bayside Christian 2224 Greenwell Rd, Virginia Beach, Va. 23455 June 3rd, 2025 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations be made to a local historical preservation society, in honor of Gary's lifelong passion for history.