Robert Earl Thompson Jr. was born on July 28, 1948, in Amory, Mississippi. He was the third child of Robert Earl Thompson Sr. and Lena Mae Ivy Thompson. Robert preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Janice Eileen Lloyd; his two brothers, Ivy Augustine Thompson, and Carl Arthur Thompson; and his granddaughter, Devonna Smith-Thompson Stepdaughter Rachel May Vertrees.

Robert was a man of deep faith. Robert was baptized at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and remained devoted to his beliefs, carrying them with quiet strength throughout his life.

Robert’s educational journey began at Rose of Lima Grade School and continued with his graduation from Soldan High School in 1968. He then pursued higher education at St. Louis Community College at Meramec in Kirkwood, Missouri, where he earned an Associate of Arts degree.

Robert was a proud member of I.A.T.S.E. Local #6. He began his career at KMOX as a television cameraman. Guided by a deep love of music and the arts, he later became a stagehand, traveling across the country and working on Broadway productions, including The Wiz. He also enjoyed a long career at The Muny—the nation’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theatre—where he ultimately retired.

Outside of work, Robert found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved barbecuing and even collected barbecue pits, becoming quite the pro at cooking ribs—something family and friends always looked forward to. He also had a deep love for technology, staying ahead of his time and keeping up with the latest cameras, sound equipment, and computers. Pops also enjoyed Oreo cookies, Milky Ways, and other candy bars, and he treasured the quiet moments that brought him peace and reflection.

Robert’s legacy is one of faith, love, and devotion to both family and the Lord. He was a Loving Grandpa, great grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

On February 9, 2026, Robert answered the Lord’s call and went home to be with his Heavenly Father. Robert will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit and the lessons he shared will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.

He leaves to cherish his memory: two sons, Robert Earl Thompson III (Shondalynn Couth-Thompson) and Michael J. Thompson (Shani Thompson); one sister, LaWanda Smith (Carlton); four brothers, Laester Albert Thompson, Henry James Thompson, Larry Benton Thompson (Rita), and Stefan Thompson (Bonnie); and brother-in-law Randy Brent Ostertag.  Robert is also survived by LaVerne Thomas Vertrees ; stepson, Thomas Vertrees ; and his

Grandchildren: Jordan Thompson, Robert Earl Thompson IV, Mya Thompson, Ni”esha McCrady, Bobby Jones, JaShawn Couch, Michael James Thompson Jr., Aireyan K. Johnson, and Faith LeNora Thompson.