Dr. Marvin Peters Thompson
Dr. Marvin Peters “Pete” Thompson Jr., 80, departed his earthly body to be with our Heavenly Father Friday, November 26, 2021.
Pete was born on September 28, 1941, the son of Marvin Peters Thompson Sr. and Dorothy Wycoff (Raybourne) Thompson.
Pete grew up in Mackville, Ky., hunting, fishing and fostering his love for wildlife and the majesty of God’s creations. He was the 1957 Kentucky State Moskeet Champion and his passions carried into his later years, paving the path for his future career and endeavors.
Pete was an incredible advocate of education and, as an educator himself, remained a learner throughout his lifetime. He earned a Bachelors of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky and his love for wildlife propelled him to complete his Master's degree from Kansas State University in wildlife management and then his Ph.D. at Southern Illinois University. He cherished his 30 years at Eastern Kentucky University as a biological sciences and wildlife conservation professor. His enthusiasm for teaching and love for his students earned him the distinguished award of Kentucky’s Conservation Educator of the Year in 1976.
Pete enjoyed travel and was never shy to speak of his travels. He had the blessing of visiting all 50 states, Europe, China, Australia, Argentina, all the Canadian provinces, and his most recent adventure, his safari trip to Africa.
While his accomplishments were many, including his induction into the Mackville Hall of Fame in 2010, he was proudest of his family, which he said was his greatest blessing.
He and his beloved wife of 59 years, Brenda Pinkston Thompson, raised three daughters, Penny Simmons, Cindy Reed (Mike), Karen Benson (Gus) and one son, Christopher Thompson. Pete also loved dearly his eight grandchildren, Shelby Simmons, Nathan Simmons (McKenzi), Heather Reed, Chelsea Reed, Gus Benson II, Blake Benson, Calvert Benson, John Benson; and one great-granddaughter, Tyler Danielle Simmons.
One of his greatest joys and hobbies was being the biggest cheerleader of his children and grandchildren. It was rare for him to ever miss a basketball or soccer game, a tennis match, recital or concert and you could always count on words of wisdom or a clever riddle that accompanied each event.
A long time member of First Baptist Church, he served as a deacon and lovingly supported the various ministries of the church. He walked faithfully with his Savior and took incredible pride in knowing that his family knew and served the Lord.
Alongside those listed above, Pete is survived by his sister Jackie Sutton (Binford), and many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.
Pete was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. William Reid Thompson II, and sister, Betty Haydon (Lloyd).
Visitation will take place Friday, Dec. 3, 2021, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Richmond, followed by the funeral service at 6:30 p.m.
In addition, there will be a graveside service held at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Springfield, Ky., Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to EKU Foundation, note in memory of Pete Thompson, designated to the Biology Critical Fund, CPO 19A 521, Lancaster Avenue, Richmond, Ky., 40475, or the Mackville Community Development Center, P.O. Box 73, Mackville, Ky., 40040.