Gary Howard Thompson, 71, of Eden passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Eden Rehab and Nursing Center after many years of declining health.

A service of remembrance will be held at 1 pm on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Boone & Cooke Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends from 12 until 1 pm on Wednesday before the service at the funeral home.

Gary was born in Eden on February 9, 1955, a son of Paul William Thompson, Sr. and Christine Huff Thompson, both deceased. He retired from E.I. DuPont, Inc. He was a big NASCAR fan and loved going to races in any state. He also loved dirt track racing.

Gary never met a stranger and was always up for any kind of adventure that came along. He was quick witted, with a great sense of humor. Laughter was always a part of his being.

Gary loved his family. He was married to the love of his life, Kimberly “Kim” Murphy Thompson for 36 years. She survives him along with their son, William “Reid” Thompson of Eden; his sister, Carolyn Hodges (Hugh) of Eden; his brother, Paul Thompson, Jr. (Harriet) of Danville, VA; He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, many cousins and friends and his racing buddies, Mike Whitlow and Robbie Staley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to The National Kidney Foundation or to the Rockingham County Humane Society, 205 Boone Road, Eden, NC 27288.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Eden Rehab and Davita Dialysis for their outstanding care during his illness.