11/15/2025
Phillip Ernest Thompson was born on February 18, 1940, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Malcolm Ernest Thompson and Clara Fuller Thompson; he passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025. He was 85 years old.
He married the love of his life Virginia Ann Brown in 1970; they were married 55 years. Preceded in death by Phil’s first son, Phillip Ernest Thompson Jr., they raised four wonderful children, Tracy Ray (Craig), Tiffany Thompson Popma (Martin), Tammy Chapman (Kevin), and Terry Boyd (John). Phil and Virginia have eight grandsons: Brandon Ray; Zachary Popma; Taylor, Tanner, Benjamin, William, and Jack Chapman; and Logan Boyd.
Phillip’s commitment to hard work started at a very young age leading him to joining his father’s, Malcom Thompson, plumbing supply business, along with his brother Dennis. In 1962, Phillip moved to Opelika to open another branch of Thompson Supply, which is still going strong today. Phil had a passion for snow skiing, hiking, and camping and had spent quality time with his family on such activities. He taught many of his grandsons, and even a son-in-law, how to snow ski and hiked many miles with them as well.

Phillip had created a legacy through his unwavering dedication, kindness, and love for his community. He had been a source of inspiration to his family and friends, touching the lives of countless people throughout his life.
Preceded in death by his brother Dennis Thompson, sisters Susan Gardner, and Dee Prestridge. Surviving siblings, Patsy Armstead and Angel Thompson.
A special thanks to the love and care given to Dad by Anthony Wilson, Trina Reed, Zan Harrison, Wanda Coley, Marquez “Coop” Cooper, and Carolyn Wilson.
Our deepest gratitude to Sharon Lee for going above and beyond, for Holly Eaton’s care, and for the incredible staff at The Harbor at Opelika.
A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. Visitation will be at 9:00AM in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home followed by a service at 11:00AM in the chapel. Interment will be at 2:00PM in Greenwood Serenity Memorial Cemetery in Montgomery, Alabama.
You may send flowers, or contributions can be made in his honor to the Bethany House (Compassus Living Foundation).
https://www.compassus.com/about-us/giving-and-donations/
