Stephen M. Thompson

Stephen Michael Thompson (Leroy T), 66, passed peacefully on Friday, July 1, 2022, held in the arms of his family.

Steve was born October 3, 1955, in Tuscola, Illinois, to Elmer and Wilma (Ernst) Thompson.

At a very early age, Steve began playing bass with a young band called Lum Suggs and The Reverbs. He and life long friends Glynn Fleming and Marshall Bray also went on to tour playing the Grand Ole Opry circuit. Steve joined The Rolling Country Band and moved to Texas at the ripe age of 18. Rolling Country played extensively throughout the Dallas Music scene and went on to do USO tours and travel the world. After Rolling Country, Steve went on to play with bands such as CrossFire, The Cutlers, and in his later years as the bass player for the Ed Burleson Band and then The Mack and Dyan Band. All the while keeping his job as a Commercial Overhead Door Technician until he retired.

Steve was a multifacated personality. He just enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved fishing, hunting, target shooting, hanging on the back porch with friends and family, grilling and sharing really cheesy jokes with whoever would listen. He most of all loved his family.

Steve is survived by his wife, Deborah Thompson; sons: Joe Thompson and wife, Angel, and Robert Thompson; daughters: Kelly Ray and husband, Randy, and Elysse Hunt and husband, Dale; sisters: Brenda Kay Smith and Lori Thompson; 14 granchildren and an abundance of loving friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.