Ronald Thompson of Centralia, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the age of 80.
He was born in Red Bud, Illinois, on May 6, 1944, the son of Forrest and Evelyn (Druste) Thompson.
Ronald proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, a commitment he carried with him through his lifetime as a member of the Centralia American Legion Post 446. After his military service, he dedicated his career to the railroad industry, contributing his skills and dedication to his work.
A passionate fisherman, Ronald took tremendous joy in spending his days on the water, often riding his boat on local lakes and reminiscing about earlier adventures rabbit and squirrel hunting. A true lover of yard work and always passionate about the simple joys of life.
An ardent fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Ronald rarely missed a game, embracing the sportsmanship and camaraderie the team inspired. However, his greatest pleasure was found in the company of his family, especially the cherished moments spent with his grandchildren, Amari and Ariah Shidle of Centralia.
Ronald is survived by his loving daughter, Molly Thompson, and her partner Austen Shidle, his grandchildren Amari and Ariah Shidle, his devoted sister, Jean Miremann of Red Bud, Illinois, and his special niece, Rachell Lynn Miremann, also of Red Bud, Illinois.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Evelyn Thompson, with whom he is now reunited.
Visitation will be held at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, Illinois on Monday, January 20, 2025, from 5:00 pm- 6:00 pm. Friends and family are welcome to gather, share stories, and celebrate Ronald’s life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Molly Thompson and will be graciously accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois, 62801. Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or on the Funeral Home Facebook page.
