John W. Thompson Jr., age 54, Senior Vice President of Information Technology of GTE Federal Credit Union, died peacefully at Tampa General Hospital on Friday, April 3, 2009.
He was born March 18, 1955, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama to Cleo Lamb Thompson and John Wallace Thompson, Sr. He was a resident of Lithia, FL. He attended university in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. After college, he became a data processing manager of Space Coast Credit Union in Melbourne, FL. He joined GTE FCU in 1991 quickly working his way up to Senior Vice President. He worked in the IT industry for 26 years, 21 of which were in the credit union industry. John won numerous technology awards and his considerable expertise will be sorely missed.
“There were many times he made the critical decisions that sent us down the right path,” says Suzanne Wilson, Senior Vice President of Branch Operations at GTE FCE.
Barry Artis, Vice President of IT Communications at GTE FCU said, “John was a terrific leader, innovative and forward-thinking. He was always looking for a way to incorporate new technology into the credit union.” John was survived by his loving wife, Linda and faithful yellow lab, Whiskey Joe; father, John Wallace Thompson, Sr.; sisters Sandra Boutwell and Elizabeth Melton. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, many relatives and friends. His mother Cleo Lamb Thompson predeceased him. John enjoyed life to its fullest. His generosity benefited many in credit union industry and his church. He was a consummate practical joker. Most of his practical jokes evolved around Alabama’s prowess over any other collegiate athletic team. His hobbies included playing the guitar, riding his motorcycle, golfing, swimming with Whiskey Joe and living and breathing University of Alabama football. Roll Tide!!
A memorial service will be held at 7:00pm on Monday, April 6, 2009 at Grace Community UMC, 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Road, Lithia, FL 33547. Funeral arrangements will be made through Serenity Meadows Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Life Link Legacy Fund, 409 Bayshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606.