Larry Thompson

Lawrence Grimes “Larry” Thompson, 80, of Wilson, died peacefully in Duke Hospice on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

A graveside service will be on Sunday, April 14, 2:00 PM, at Maplewood Cemetery.   The family will receive friends at the home on Saturday, 4:00 - 6:00 PM.

The ultimate Tarheel found a soft place in his heart for the heroic Duke team that led him into the next world.  A smile on his face and sweet last words for his son and wife are his legacy.

Larry was born in Durham, grew up in Connecticut, went to school in Vermont, and graduated from the University of North Carolina.  A Rebell and a Yankee rolled into one.  At UNC Chapel Hill he was given the nick name “Iron Man” by his fraternity brothers.  A Deke through and through the rest of life.  Determined to fight until the end.

Larry was a tobacconist for many years.  First with Liggett and Myers in Durham, then Philip Morris in Richmond, VA.   He lastly became a coffee service and vending machine owner until the end of his career, moving to Wilson, NC in 2010 after retiring.  He adopted his new home with joy and vigor.  Driving anywhere in five minutes was his moto.  Larry was awarded Volunteer of the Year honors by the Republican Party in Wilson.

He is survived by his wife Nancy Vick Thompson; son, Larry Thompson (Lauren); grandsons, Brayden and Camden Thompson; brother, Loy Thompson (Lynn); cousins, Stedman Morris and Susan Carroll; his favorite sister-in-law, Sarah Vick Purvis; nephew, Keith Purvis (Rea); nieces, Jean Credle (Todd), Connor Ward (Josh), Farley Fink (Jeff), and Martel Hale (Tony), and many friends.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Loy Durant Thompson and Martha Grimes Thompson.

We wish to thank the staff and volunteers of Caring House for their love and devotion this past year.  It became Larry’s home and his “rainbow in the sky”.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Caring House, 2625 Pickett Rd, Durham, NC 27705.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr. N, Wilson, 237-7171; www.wilsonmemorialservice.com