Tony was educated in the Pitt County school system and attended the University of North Carolina at Asheville. During his short life Tony touched the lives of many. Tony had enjoyed computer games from an early age. He recently became a dog trainer extraordinaire and found a way to combine his love of dogs with his occupation.
Tony leaves his family, Cindy Cox Messick, mother, and stepfather Finley Messick, and sister Sarah Messick, all of Frankfort, Kentucky; his father, Tony Alan Thompson Sr., and a brother, Bruce Thompson, of Morehead City, N.C.; his maternal grandparents, Pat and Bob McClanahan of New Bern, and the late Dallas H. Cox; his paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Thompson, also of Morehead City. He is survived by his uncle and aunt, Terry and Donny Dunn of New Bern, and cousins, Don Dunn and wife Allison of Albuquerque, N.M., Michael Dunn and wife Morgan of Raleigh, N.C., Patrick Dunn and Robinson Dunn of New Bern, and a very special Uncle Doby Messick of Boone, N.C.
Tony leaves an extended family of college friends in Asheville.
There was a memorial service on Saturday, November 20, 2010, in Frankfort, Kentucky.
There will be a memorial service and visitation from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday at the McClanahan home at 1305 Phillips Avenue, New Bern.
In lieu of flowers we ask for donations to Animal Resorts and Training Center, 1625 Louisville Road, Frankfort, KY 40601. Please mark checks for Tony's memorial.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
NBHS Class of '78
November 23, 2010
We wish there was something we could say that would ease the burden you are bearing tonight. Please let someone know if there is anything we can do. We love you, Cindy, and will keep you in our prayers faithfully.

Ron Harris
November 23, 2010
I knew Tony through his time at Animal Resorts and Training Center. I have always prided myself on being able to discern the true nature of a person upon first meeting. Tony immediately impressed me as a kind and gentle soul...and I was correct. I hope that he will help take care of my dogs at the Rainbow Bridge until I get there.
Christina Phillips
November 23, 2010
All of us at Animal Resorts and Training Center will miss Tony. He was truly a bright star and was loved here by animal and man alike. We take comfort in knowing that he left behind a lot of friends and very happy puppies. We share daily our memories of Tony and all the ways he brought happiness and humor to our lives.
Barbara Snow
November 22, 2010
Finely & Cindy our hearts go out to you in the loss of your son. This is the hardest task parents can ever be handed. I can relate to what you are going thru since it has been only 6 yrs since we lost our only son at 27. Keep family & friends close & take your time to work thru this. We are here for you if need anything at all.
May GOD BLESS!! Love Donnie & Barbara
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Marie and JL Corbett
November 22, 2010
Cindy, our thoughts and prayers are with you, JL and me are so sorry to hear of Tony's passing away,I have a picture of you and him when he was a baby, Days ahead will be bad for you but you will not be alone, God will be holding your heart and leading you down the road of grief, Thinking of you, Marie and JL
Ginger Vann
November 22, 2010
Cindy and family...I just couldn't believe it when Cindy e-mailed me about Tony. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Ginger
Cindy Rhue
November 22, 2010
Cindy and family...I was devasted to hear of Tony's death and have thought about your family often since hearing. I pray for your family as you grieve this tremendous loss. Cherish your memories as Tony lives on in your heart forever. Love, Cindy
Pamela Heath Gray
November 22, 2010
Cindy,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.
Kellie Adams
November 22, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. He was such a wonderful person, Keno and I will miss him dearly.
November 22, 2010
Cindy and family,
Please know how sorry I am for the loss of Tony. Although I did know Tony, I know what a fine anf loving family from which he came. You all are in my thoughts and prayers
Jimmy Cayton
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