With Love, Dr. Thompson

Sunday, I learned that my pastor of 20 years (from birth until college) was in his last days. Early Monday morning, our Lord took him home after a long fight with leukemia. Below is a picture of him and his wife and a tribute to him in the local paper. He preached his last revival service June 6-9, 2010. He was used of the Lord until the very end.

Dr. Roy & Mrs. Faith Thompson

Rev. Henry Roy Thompson, age 77, of Middleburg Heights, Ohio. His work on Earth finished, he peacefully entered into eternal rest on Monday, June 14, 2010 surrounded by his family. Devoted husband for 54 years to Faith Diane Thompson (Sherban), he is survived by his loving wife and helpmate. Beloved father and example, he is mourned by his three children, Joyce Witzke, Mark David Thompson, and Ruth Stone. Survived by 11 adoring grandchildren, 10 cherished great-grandchildren, and Tammy Wright regarded as his own daughter, and her two children. Brother of Andrew (Barbara) and the late Dorothy (Edward Sanderfer).

With boundless energy, he devoted his life to the dissemination of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Without denominational support, he founded and grew the Cleveland Baptist Church to a membership of more than 6000. “Roy” was a humble man who knew poverty as a youth and never lost his zeal to help the less fortunate around the world, founding and assisting hundreds of churches, orphanages, health clinics, schools and canteens. He fought tenaciously for freedom of religion and religious education. In continuous demand as an inspirational speaker, he drew crowds in more than 20 countries on 5 continents. Valedictorian of his seminarian class and recipient of multiple honorary degrees, he was befriended by Mayors, Governors, Senators, Presidents and even an Emperor, but his heart always remained with those in need.

Until stricken with leukemia which he valiantly battled for 6 years, he spent most of his “retirement” starting and helping orphanages in the poorest areas of the Philippine Islands, and numerous projects in Haiti. His good works continued even during his lengthy and painful illness, and his inspiration will be sorely missed by countless thousands.

I cannot even begin to express the graditude I have for this man. He was humanly speaking responsible for who I am today . . . my family's salvation, teaching my parents how to raise us kids, instilling God's Word and how to live a Godly life in to me from a young age. He set a high standard for what a Pastor should be and I doubt many I met will live up to that standard. He preached the Word unapologetically and with such zeal.

So thankful he is resting in the arms of his Savior and in no more pain. Thank you, Dr. Thompson for investing so much love, time and prayer into our family. You will be missed here on earth. Looking forward to meeting up with you in Heaven some day hopefully soon!