Richard Thompson

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we share the passing of Richard “Rick” Thompson, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, who left us too soon on April 10, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. He passed peacefully with his family by his side.

Born on August 2, 1961, in Cadiz, Ohio, Rick was the eldest son of the late Marion Thompson and Chester Thompson. He graduated from Cadiz High School in 1980, where he was an avid athlete involved in basketball, track, and baseball. He shared his love of baseball by guiding and inspiring young athletes as a devoted Little League coach. He later earned an associate’s degree in business in Columbus, Ohio.

Rick met Diane in the Spring of 1983, later that fall, they moved to Florida and began building a life together, side by side. They married September 16, 1989.

For the past 17 years, Rick served as Purchasing Manager at Sun State Nursery & Landscaping Inc., where he was a vital and cherished part of the Sun State family. Known for his warm smile, determined work ethic, and attention to detail, Rick had a gift for connecting with people. He traveled extensively across Florida and nearby states, building lasting relationships throughout the nursery industry. Rick's integrity and genuine spirit left a mark on everyone he met—he never walked away from a conversation without gaining a new friend. His presence will be deeply missed by all who worked alongside him.

Prior to joining Sun State, Rick dedicated over 23 years to various financial institutions across Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tallahassee, Florida.

Rick was a devoted Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns fan, and had a lifelong love for music, golfing, and NASCAR. However, his greatest joy came from the time he spent with his beloved Weimaraner’s—Zeke, Zoe, Poe, and Missy Ma’am. Fondly known as the “dog whisperer,” Rick found peace and happiness in the long Sunday walks they shared. His fur babies continue to feel his absence deeply.

In the days leading up to his passing, Rick was surrounded by an outpouring of love from family, friends, and coworkers who came to express their gratitude and share cherished memories. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering loyalty lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Tim Thompson, sister-in-law Karen Thompson, and their daughter, Tessa. He is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Diane Zantene Thompson; his son, Ryan Thompson; sister Dianna Cunningham Allport of Myrtle Beach, SC; brother Mark Thompson of Cadiz, OH; and nephews Trevor Thompson of Cadiz, OH, and Tyler Thompson of Mason, OH.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, in the chapel of Quinn Shalz Funeral Home, with Father Joseph Jacob officiating. A Tribute to Rick will follow at the Lantern Square Clubhouse in Kendall Town, 1411 Kendall Town Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225. A Celebration of Life will also be held at a later date in his hometown of Cadiz, Ohio.