Marvin Thompson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Marvin Lee Thompson, age 73, Joplin, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2020 at his home after a sudden illness.

Marvin was born October 24, 1947 in Joplin, son of the late Jessie Marvin Thompson and Eula Pansy Hannon Thompson. He attended Joplin Schools, served in the United States Army, and was a past member of the Missouri Army National Guard in Carthage and Joplin. He has lived in the Joplin, Galena area his entire life. 

He married Barbara Christine Basye in 1972. They were married for 28 years, and the couple had two children, Franklin D. and Michelle Lee.

He began his working career selling insurance, before working at several machine shops, and Miller Manufacturing Company for many years. He then worked for Farmer's Chemical as a chemist for 25 years before retiring in 2000. He was also a volunteer fireman for the Galena Fire Department for over 20 years.

He moved back to Joplin in 2000 to take care of his mother until her passing in 2011. He was an avid Ham Radio Operator, which he has enjoyed since 1987. He loved to coach his children's sports activities, from third grade through high school. He later enjoyed watching his grandchildren's sporting activities over the years.

Survivors include his children, Michelle Burris and husband Kirk of Galena, Frank Thompson of Springfield, Missouri; grandchildren, Jordyn Burris, of Joplin, Jace Burris, Krissy Burris, and Kirstyn Youngblood all of Galena; his longtime friend and companion, Gladys E. Higginbotham, and her children, Krissy and Jeannie.

Memorial service will be Saturday, November 7, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in Parker Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Alan McCamey officiating. Interment of his ashes will be at a later date with his mother in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery.