Funeral services for Pastor Charles W. Thompson, long-time resident of Jefferson, will be held November 11 at First United Methodist Church in Jefferson.
The Rev. Heather Dorr of First United Methodist Church will officiate. Interment with military rites will be in the Jefferson Municipal Cemetery.
Charles W. Thompson, known affectionately as Charlie to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024, at the age of 74 years. Born on April 25, 1950, in Jefferson, Charlie lived a life marked by faith, compassion, intellectual curiosity, and patriotism.
Charlie was the son of Dr. E. Dean Thompson and E. Frances Tilton Thompson. Charlie’s early years in Jefferson laid the foundation for a life of service and learning. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pre-med from the University of Iowa and went on to receive a Master of Divinity from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary. His academic achievements were just the beginning of a lifelong journey of personal and spiritual growth.
Charlie was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Karyl Weaver, on December 16, 1972. Together, they became the parents of six children, all of whom are veterans of the military. Charlie and Karyl’s deep faith sustained them through their children’s 14 combat deployments. Karyl was by Charlie’s side until she passed away in 2011.
In 1988, Charlie began his vocation as a pastor with the Iowa United Methodist Churches, a calling he fulfilled with dedication and love until his retirement in 2020. Over the course of his ministry, he served numerous congregations, including Greenbrier UMC, Scranton UMC, Nashua UMC, Earlham UMC, Penn Center UMC, Bayard UMC, Wichita UMC, Farnhamville United Church, and Somers UMC. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his congregants was a testament to his character.
Charlie’s service extended beyond the church walls. He was a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army, commissioned in the summer of 1972, and went on active duty January 1973. He trained at Ft. Bliss, TX, and was stationed at Ft. Hood, TX. He was honorably discharged in December 1974 from Ft. Hood. He was a proud member of the Olsen-Reid American Legion Post 250 in Castlewood, SD, and a former member of the Floyd Brown American Legion Post 11 in Jefferson, a reflection of his patriotic spirit and his commitment to community. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Jefferson.
Described as faith-filled and kind, Charlie approached life with a rare blend of warmth and wisdom.
Family was the cornerstone of Charlie’s life. He is survived by a loving and extensive family, including his son Charles F. Thompson II; daughter Kristina (Duane) Mullen; sons John, Matthew (Leah), Michael, and Philip (Rebecca) Thompson; his cherished grandchildren Henry, Teddy, William, Kezia, Tommy, Toby, J Ryker, Rowan, and Evelyn; his brothers Joseph (Elaine), Elvin (Patty), and Robert (Susan); sister Judith (Steve) Shank; and nieces,and nephews. Each family member carries with them the legacy of Charlie’s gentle guidance and profound love.
Charlie’s interests and hobbies were as varied as his talents. His analytical mind found joy in the detailed histories and personal stories that accompany military service. His faith was the guiding light of his life, influencing not only his career but also his personal relationships and community involvement.
As we remember Charlie, we reflect on a life lived in service to others, a journey marked by an unwavering commitment to faith and family. His gentle presence and wise counsel touched the lives of countless individuals, both within his congregations and beyond. Charlie’s legacy is one of love, kindness, patriotism, and a deep-seated faith that enriched every aspect of his being.
Charles W. Thompson will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say goodbye to Charlie, we take solace in the knowledge that his spirit lives on through the many lives he touched. Charlie’s journey on earth may have concluded, but his story—a narrative of service, love, and faith—will endure forever.
