Columbus, MS – Sidney Lamar Thompson, Sr., a former Columbus City Councilman and a veteran of the Korean War, passed away on May 7, 2023, at Baptist Memorial Hospital at the age of 92. Thompson, lovingly known as “Paw Paw,” was remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who was always tender and kind to everyone he met. He served his savior, Jesus Christ, his church, and his community.
Thompson was born on February 25, 1931, in Oktibbeha County, MS, to Raymond Ollie and Minnie Seacott Thompson, Sr. He graduated from Starkville High School and Mississippi State University. After serving in the United States Army during the Korean War and being stationed in Germany, Thompson worked for 36 years at Akzo Nobel Chemical before embarking on a career in public service.
Thompson served on the Columbus City Council representing Ward 2 from 1997 to 2001. An avid gardener, Thompson also served as a deacon for over 60 years and was a member of McBee Baptist Church.
Thompson is survived by his wife of 70 years, Mary Blankenship Thompson of Columbus, MS; sons Sidney Thompson, Jr. of Columbus, MS, Kenny Thompson of Columbus, MS, and Glenn Thompson and his wife Melanie of Lebanon, TN; daughters Dr. Teresa Thompson of Columbus, MS, and Mary Helen Hawkins and her husband Eddie and granddaughter Mallory Cook of Columbus, MS; eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services for Thompson will be held on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Memorial Gunter Peel Chapel, with Rev. Mike Dalton and Rev. Jimmy Ray officiating. The interment will immediately follow at Curtis Chapel Cemetery in Oktibbeha County, MS. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Pallbearers will be Eddie Hawkins, Howard Cook, Korey Thompson, Reese Thompson, Boone Thompson, and Jack Thompson. Honorary pallbearers will be the men of McBee Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the McBee Baptist Church Building Fund or Youth Program, 2846 Hwy 50 East, Columbus, MS, 39702.
Sheriff Eddie Hawkins, who is also Thompson’s son-in-law, expressed his condolences, stating “We lost a good man yesterday. My Father-in-law Sidney Thompson, lovingly known as Paw Paw, was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. It’s hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember. My family and I would like to thank everyone for the thoughts and prayers.”
