John Phillip Thompson

SALEM – John Phillip "TP" Thompson, 72, of Salem, beloved companion of Marjorie Nelson, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025 in Marblehead, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Salem, John was the son of the late Arnold and Margaret (O'Meara) Thompson. He was a graduate of Salem High School, Class of 1972. Growing up as one of the boys on Boston Street in the Gallows Hill neighborhood, John ran with the "Hole in the Wall Gang" and formed lifelong friendships.

Following graduation, John hitchhiked his way to California with friends, eager for adventure. Three years later, he returned to Salem and joined the U.S. Army, proudly serving in the 1st Armored Division as an armored track recovery specialist. He spent time overseas and remained deeply proud of his military service and the dedication of his fellow veterans.

After his service, John worked for many years as a wastewater operator for the South Essex Sewerage District.

A lifelong lover of music, John attended Woodstock as a 16-year-old and continued to enjoy outdoor music festivals and many concerts throughout his life. He appreciated all kinds of music but had a special love for the blues. John also enjoyed camping with friends and family in Maine and Vermont State Parks, always ready with a good story, a laugh, and a tune to share around the campfire.

To his friends, he was affectionately known as "TP" (Top Priority) - a nickname that stuck with him for life and perfectly captured his easygoing, loyal spirit. John was a devoted father, a loving partner, and a friend to all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, John is predeceased by his daughter, Kelsy Thompson, and his sisters, Evelyn Perry, Carol Francis, and Eileen Sabino.

John is survived by his companion, Marjorie Nelson of Salem, his son, Nathan Thompson and his wife Lauren of Salem, his brothers, Carl Thompson of Salem, Robert Thompson and his wife Stephanie of Ipswich, and Joey Thompson and his wife Nancy of Lynn, his close, long-time friend, Jan Jefferson, and many nieces and nephews.

ARRANGEMENTS: Friends and family are invited to visiting hours to be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 from 4 to 7 P.M. at O'Donnell Cremations - Funerals - Celebrations, 84 Washington Square, (at Salem Common) SALEM . John's funeral will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, October 21st, 2025 at 11 A.M. Burial to follow at Harmony Grove Cemetery, 30 Grove Street, Salem. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Northshore Recovery High School (Northshore Education Consortium), 112 Sohier Road, Beverly, MA 01915 or online at www.nsedu.org/ways-to-give/make-a-gift/. To share a memory or condolence please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.