Philip Thompson

Philip David Thompson, 51, of Jonesboro, Ark., passed away Saturday, November 18, 2006, at St. Bernard Hospital in Jonesboro.

He was born Sept. 5, 1955, in Quantico, Vir., to David R. and Phyllis Stroup Thompson. He and Vicki Charles were married June 24, 1978, in Austin, Tex.

Philip was a 1973 graduate of Jackson High School and attended Southeast Missouri State University. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1975. During his 24-year career, he served both stateside and overseas. His deployments included Desert Storm, Desert Shield, and Provide Comfort in the Persian Gulf.

Among his many achievements, honors, and commendations, most notably he was the recipient of the 1991 U.S. Air Force NCO Meteorologist of the Year. He also served with Special Forces when stationed at RAF Bentwaters, England and received the Joint Meritorious Unit Award. He retired in November, 1999, as a Master Sergeant.

Loving survivors include his wife of Jonesboro; parents of Jackson; two daughters Staci (Brian) Beussink and their children, Brett, Anna, Sydney, and Jayden, of Jackson, Valeri (Chad) Hudson and their daughter Riley of Beebe, Ark.; a son, Philip (April) Thompson and their daughter Taylor of Beebe, Ark.; and a brother, John N. (Marcia) Thompson of Jackson.

Also surviving is his mother-in-law, Maria Charles of Austin, Tex; sister-in-law, Lupe (Mark) Jennings of Brownsville, Tex.; and three brothers-in-law, Julian Alcoser of Hutto, Tex., Johnny Charles of Round Rock, Tex., Sal Charles of Austin; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m., at the McCombs Funeral Home in Jackson.

Funeral service will be Wednesday at 11 a.m., at the funeral home. The Rev. Carter Frey will officiate with burial to follow at Russell Heights Cemetery with graveside military honors.

Sympathy messages may be sent to the family online at www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.