Major R. Thompson

With profound sadness we announce the passing of Major R. Thompson of Farmville, VA on Nov 21, 2026. His smile and kind, outgoing spirit touched countless lives.

Major was born on Jan 13, 1934 in Floyd County, VA to the late Trigg and Lala Thompson. He was the 5 th of 10 brothers and sisters. As a young man, Major set out on a long and adventurous life. He first married Lois Wickline of Christiansburg, VA with whom he had three children while living in Bedford, VA. He later married Edna Gail Calderwood and moved to Farmville in 1970. Major spent his 1st career as a highway inspector for the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). He was fortunate to retire early and then started his small Majors Sharpening Service business.

Major led his life with kindness and integrity. He loved the outdoors! He was quite outgoing and enjoyed belonging to many social organizations. He was a natural leader and had varied interests. He was in his element when woodworking, gardening, camping, traveling around the world, tool sharpening, lamp repair, and a variety of arts and crafts. Major was especially involved in and was a founding member of the Piedmont Church of Christ. His church and family was the cornerstone of his life. He was full of life, thoughtful, kind and generous. He loved his family deeply and enjoyed sharing in their lives.

Major is survived by his son, Jerry (Melinda), daughter Wanda (Jody), daughter-in-law Kari, grandsons Christopher and Benjamin Thompson, granddaughter Mandalyn Gillis (Jordan) and Tedra Hall, sister Marie Hensley, brother Joseph Thompson and numerous nieces and nephews. He is pre-deceased by his wife Gail C. Thompson, son Ricky Thompson, and granddaughter Kyla Thompson.

Visitation will be held from 10-12am on Tuesday November 25, 2025 followed by a Celebration of Life service at noon at the Piedmont Church of Christ, 1205 N. Main St. Farmville, VA 23901. Graveside serviced will follow at the Trinity Memorial Gardens 22482 Prince Edward Hwy.

In honor of Majors life, memorial contributions can go the Piedmont Church of Christ, Cumberland County Rescue Squad, or a special charity of choice.