Obituary of Isaac Thomas Thompson

First Sergeant, Isaac Thomas Thompson, United States Army, Retired, 87 of Columbia, S.C., went home to be with his Lord on July 3rd, 2021. 

Born in Gaston, N.C.  on April 21, 1934, he was the son of the late Paul Wilson and Olivia Ophelia Hodges Thompson.  

Mr. Thompson is survived by his son Larry G. Thompson (Annette); daughter Carmen T. Wages of Lexington County S.C., daughter-in-laws; Robin Thompson of Leesville, Robbin Thompson of Gilbert, six grandchildren; Hope (Eddie), Jamin (Vannessa), Karl, Ashley, Stephanie (Kayla) and Gabriel; eight great-grandchildren; Chase, Aaron, Bradley, Damian, Haley, Robbie, Luke, Levi and one great great-grandchild, Chloe. He is also survived by two brothers of N.C.; Chubby Thompson (Cathy) and Burt Thompson (Daphaine) and many nieces and nephews to cherish his memory.   Mr. Thompson was predeceased by his loving wife of 54 years, Betty Schrodel Thompson, sons; Frankie E. Thompson and Steven Isaac Thompson, brothers; Surry Wilson Thompson and Brooks Alex Thompson of N.C. and a son-in-law, Lonnie Wages.  

Mr. Thompson was a proud and dedicated veteran.  He faithfully served 21 years in the United States Army, retiring in 1973.  He continued his service while working as a JROTC teacher for another 20 years until his retirement in 1993.  Mr. Thompson was a highly decorated soldier and was awarded numerous medals during service to his country.  These include  the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, four Army Commendation Medals; one with Valor, six Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 6 Service Stars, Armed Forces Honor Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Vietnam Campaign Medal; expert infantryman Badge; Drill Sargent Identification Badge and he was awarded the coveted Saber for being an “Honor Graduate” from Drill Sargent School in 1964, 2nd class at Fort Jackson, S.C. 

Mr. Thompson also went to Midlands Tech during his free time and earned his Associates Degree in Business Management, Banking and Finance and in Real Estate and was named on the Dean’s List in 1980-81. 

He was formally recognized by the Office of Attorney General of S.C.  in June 18, 2000, as “Father of the Year” due to an entry his daughter submitted. 

Mr. Thompson was also President of S.C. Squirrel Association for 15 years. 

He loved to fish, hunt, travel to the mountains and spend time with family and friends. 

The family would like to express their gratitude to the Doctors and staff on the ninth floor at Palmetto Richland Hospital in Columbia, S.C. for all their kindness, compassion and professionalism in helping Mr. Thompson through his fight. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association, S.C. Chapter 2999 Sunset Blvd West Columbia 29169, or the charity of one’s choice.