Thompson Funeral Homes

Thompson Funeral Homes The staff members of Thompson Funeral Homes will guide your family in creating a meaningful ceremony

Thompson Funeral Home is dedicated to providing you an exceptional level of personalized service to ensure your funeral arrangements will be as unique as your loved one. From cremation and traditional burial to ShareLife celebrations of life, we provide options and guidance tailored to you and your family. If you’re looking for thoughtful and compassionate care in Lexington, South Carolina, we invite you to call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Patsy S. (Pat) Foster, a devoted mother, servant of her community, and woman of unwavering faith, passed away peacefully...
08/12/2025

Patsy S. (Pat) Foster, a devoted mother, servant of her community, and woman of unwavering faith, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born and raised in Concord, North Carolina, her deep-rooted faith and commitment to others were instilled early - shaped by her upbringing as the daughter of a humble Baptist minister and his wife (Momma Simpson). Pat’s compassion for those in need and her strong sense of family were further molded by her formative years having gone through the Great Depression—a time that taught her resilience, gratitude, and the importance of giving.

A graduate of Concord High School, Class of 1951, she was accepted to Appalachian State where she hoped to become a teacher. It was in her first semester that plan was altered, when she met her future husband, William Foster. Together, they built a home full of love, raising six children with dedication and joy. Tragically, in 1963, Pat lost William in an automobile accident. At just 30 years of age, with six young children to raise, she embodied grace and strength, dedicating herself fully to their upbringing.

Her children’s lives were marked by her presence - be it as a homeroom mother, PTA president, or friendly face behind the concession stand. She was often spotted aboard the school activity bus, cheering her children on and supporting their endeavors.

After raising her family, Pat embraced life’s next chapter with an adventurous heart. In 1979, she met Max Gergel, her beloved companion of 38 years. Together, they traveled the world, savoring every moment until his passing in 2017.

Pat remained a passionate community servant throughout her life. As a member of The Golden K Kiwanis, she championed character-building programs in schools. At the Salvation Army Shelter, she offered encouragement and compassion to those working through recovery—never seeing others by their struggles, but by their potential.

Pat’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bradley Word and his dedicated team for their compassionate care over the years. They also wish to thank the staff and residents of Presbyterian Community, where Pat spent her final year surrounded by genuine love and kindness. In her final weeks, that care was extended with the same kindness through Abbey Road Hospice.

Pat Foster’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched—with every child she raised, every hand she held, and every soul she inspired through her quiet strength and deep compassion. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Pat is survived by daughters: Susan (Larry) Wise of Blythewood, SC, Elise (Michael) Morgan of Pawley’s Island, SC, Tissy (Ken) Mathews of Lexington, SC, Wendy (Skittles) Foster of Murrells Inlet, SC, and sons: Ned (Linette) Foster of Summerville, SC, and William “Z” (Vicki) Foster of Emerald Isle, NC. She was also blessed with 14 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband William Lynch Foster, parents John and Ruth Simpson, brothers John Wesley and Gerald Simpson, and sisters Becky Livengood and Ellna Wilson.

The family will receive friends at Thompson Funeral Home, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia SC, on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 10:00am, followed by a private graveside service. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her memory to either:

Presbyterian Community
700 Davega Dr
Lexington, SC 29073
https://giving.prescommunities.org/
or
Kiwanis Kids at https://www.kiwaniskids.org/

Jerry Curtis Couch, a retired Chief Master Sergeant of the U.S. Air Force, passed away on August 4, 2025, at Lexington M...
08/09/2025

Jerry Curtis Couch, a retired Chief Master Sergeant of the U.S. Air Force, passed away on August 4, 2025, at Lexington Medical Center in West Columbia, South Carolina. He was 88 years old.

Born on June 21, 1937, in Lancaster, South Carolina, Jerry was the son of the late Henry C. and Flossie (Brazell) Couch. He proudly served his country for many years, including deployments to Spain with the Air National Guard during the Berlin Crisis and to Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine T. Couch; his son, Jerry Curtis Couch Jr.; his infant daughter, Carla; and his brother, Charles E. Couch.

He is survived by his brother, Henry C. Couch Jr., and his sister, Sandy C. Plate, and nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the compassionate nurses and staff at Lexington Medical ER and ICU, as well as the staff at Columbia Presbyterian Community for their excellent care. They also wish to acknowledge Rich Hurst and Shandon Baptist Church for their support.

The family will receive friends on Friday, August 18, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209. A graveside service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Greenlawn Memorial Park, with Rich Hurst officiating.

In place of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

John Yates Kester, Jr., 81, was born December 25, 1943, in San Diego, California and passed away on August 8, 2025. He w...
08/09/2025

John Yates Kester, Jr., 81, was born December 25, 1943, in San Diego, California and passed away on August 8, 2025. He was the son of John Yates Kester, Sr. and Barbara Reed.

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He served in the Vietnam War as a Korman. Following his military service, he helped his father and uncle working in their family own restaurant. That restaurant was located in downtown Columbia in 5 points area, known as Kester’s Bamboo House. Years later, John worked for the South Carolina Fire Academy for 30 plus years as their ground maintenance technician.

He was a member of St. David’s Lutheran Church in West Columbia. He enjoyed assisting with the food committee serving the congregation. He was also a member of the Young at Heat. John was also a member of Lake Murry Sail Club for many years until he had to eventually end his love for sailing due to his health.

His hobbies included woodworking, fishing, boating, motorcycles and cooking. He also had a talent for floral designs.

John was predeceased by both parents and his wife, Edlyn, of almost 45 years. He is survived by his daughters, Terri Kester and Joni Nehls (Walter). He was a proud Pop to Jacob, Jared, Joseph, and Jackson. He leaves behind several cousins still living in California to whom he was known as “Yates” to them. He leaves behind many family members and friends as well.

A funeral service will be held at 3 PM, August 12, 2025, with a visitation an hour prior at 2 PM. The funeral will be held at St. David’s Lutheran Church, West Columbia, Pastor Greg Brown, officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. David’s Lutheran Church.

David Byron DeLong (Dave), 78, passed away on August 4, 2025, leaving behind a life defined by love for his family, a st...
08/08/2025

David Byron DeLong (Dave), 78, passed away on August 4, 2025, leaving behind a life defined by love for his family, a strong work ethic, and a passion for the outdoors.

Born in St. Mary’s, Pennsylvania, on December 29, 1946, to Harry Travillion and Alyce Alverna DeLong, Dave spent his youth and young adulthood in Western Pennsylvania and New York State. In 1979, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to the mid-lands of South Carolina where he and his beloved wife of 25 years, Mary Elizabeth Alpaugh (decd. 1994), founded a successful company (Mid-Carolina Supply) and raised their four children.

Dave was an avid outdoorsman. His love of adventure and passion for all manner of hunting, fishing, and diving, inspired him to pursue his hobbies all over the world. Whether he was hunting caribou in northern Canada, or diving the Persian Gulf, Dave found great joy being in nature. His curiosity and imagination led to a passion for science fiction, and his natural athleticism fostered a love of sports. He was particularly happy watching his grandchildren compete on tennis and basketball courts, and baseball, football, lacrosse, and soccer fields.

Dave is survived by his children: Geoffrey DeLong (Dorsey), Rebecca Fields (Andy), David DeLong (Krista), and Eric DeLong (Amanda); and by his eleven grandchildren: Mary Stewart, Harrison, Simpson, and Pruit DeLong; Andrew and Mary Elizabeth Fields; Lucy, David, and Sam DeLong; and Madison and Emma DeLong.

A private family memorial will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Columbia.

Thomas Ray Ballington, known lovingly as “Razor Man,” passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, and dee...
08/07/2025

Thomas Ray Ballington, known lovingly as “Razor Man,” passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, and deep devotion to his family and community.

Ray was the son of the late Raymond Julian Ballington and Elizabeth Cornwell Ballington. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert Ballington; his beloved sister, Diane Thornton Ballington; and his cherished son, Brandon Alexander Ballington.

A proud 1966 graduate of Brookland-Cayce High School, Ray answered the call to serve his country and was drafted into the United States Army. He completed three tours in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and numerous other commendations for his bravery and dedication.

Following his military service, Ray earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina. He remained deeply rooted in his hometown of West Columbia, South Carolina, and was a lifelong member of Brookland United Methodist Church. He was also an active member of the Columbia Corvette Club, where he shared his love for cars and camaraderie.

Ray was deeply loved—a devoted father, a loyal brother, and a fun and caring uncle. His humor, warmth, and presence will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of Ray’s life will be announced at a later date.

Arby Oscar Crede, lovingly known as Oscar, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Columbia,...
08/06/2025

Arby Oscar Crede, lovingly known as Oscar, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Columbia, South Carolina, on May 22, 1942, Oscar lived a full life defined by faith, family, hard work, and unwavering love.

Oscar proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in 1965. The discipline, integrity, and strength of character he developed during his service remained evident throughout his life.

A devoted husband, Oscar cherished his beloved wife of 63 years, and together they built a legacy grounded in love, strength, and steadfast commitment. He was the proud father of three children: Terry Moore (John), Reverend Scott Crede (Tracey), and Tracy Gentry (David), and his love for them was evident in both word and deed.

Oscar’s family was his greatest joy. He was a proud grandfather to Corey Sandifer (Brittany), Lauren Morrison (Leland), Garrett Crede, Thomas Sandifer (Jacey), Jessica Crede, Raegan Hallman (Coltin), and Hunter Gentry. His legacy continues in the lives of his great-grandchildren: Linley, CJ, Clay, and Sadie—each of whom brought a special twinkle to his eye.

He is also survived by his beloved brother, Phillip Crede (Angie), who shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, and brotherhood with Oscar.

Oscar spent his career as a dedicated employee of BellSouth, where he worked faithfully until his retirement. He approached his work with the same discipline and excellence he instilled in his children—a quiet but powerful example of a man who gave his best in all he did.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—quiet mornings at the lake, the sound of waves in Myrtle Beach, long motorcycle rides, and time spent hunting in the woods. Oscar was a man’s man, old school in the best ways—strong, reliable, and fiercely loyal. He had a deep and abiding love for Jesus Christ, and his faith was the foundation upon which he built his life and led his family.

He had a sense of humor that made even the toughest lessons memorable. He taught his children discipline, accountability, and the value of doing things the right way—even if it meant installing a time clock at the front door to make sure curfews were kept. His wisdom was steady, his presence constant, and his love unquestionable.

Oscar will be deeply missed by those who had the honor of knowing him, but his influence will echo for generations through the lives he shaped with love, discipline, and unwavering faith.

A funeral service celebrating Oscar’s life will be held on August 18, 2025 at 1:00 pm. at Thompson Funeral Home in Lexington, South Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, an organization close to the family’s heart.

Though we grieve his passing, we rejoice in knowing that he is now home with his Savior—whole, free, and finally at rest.

08/05/2025

James Michael Stark, 81, passed away July 29, 2025 at his home in Gilbert, South Carolina. Jim was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1944 to Hugh Gaines Stark and Sylvia Ameila (Hildebrand) Stark.

Jim attended high school at Baltimore City College, graduating in 1961. Shortly after finishing high school, he began his 30 year career in the United States Navy. Jim served eight years active duty on several submarines and an additional 22 years as a reservist at several Naval Stations, retiring as a Lieutenant Commander. His civilian jobs took him from coast to coast inspecting boilers and pressure vessels. He also made a name for himself performing inspections and code reviews at nuclear reactors across the country.

Jim had an affinity for reptiles beginning at a young age. He loved to share his knowledge of these animals and often had live exhibits to show off, thus earning the nickname “Snake”. In his retirement he opened his business, “Diamondback Enterprises”, buying, selling, trading, and repairing fi****ms. If he wasn’t in his gun shop he could be found on one of his tractors cutting grass or maybe trying to catch the next big bass on his pond. Spending time outdoors on his property was his happy place.

Jim was a member of dozens of professional, civic, and recreational organizations and clubs including the Smith and Wesson Gun Collectors Association, The South Carolina Arms Collectors Association, The Ohio Gun Collectors, The American Legion, and The Disabled American Veterans. He was a lifetime member of both The Nautilus Alumni Association and The NRA. By far his favorite role was as a charter member of the Palmetto Base - United States Submarine Veterans. Jim relished his role as COB and loved pulling the Sub-Vets float in many parades across the Midlands.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Anne Brandon (Ward) Stark, his daughters Jennifer Stark Baker of Columbia, SC and Julie Stark Dominick (Wayne) of Pomaria, SC. Grand-daughters Madison Graham (Jacob), Carolie Dominick, Brandon Baker, and Sydney Baker and Great Grand-daughter Kenley Graham. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law William C. Ward, Jr., Allen C. Ward (Delores), Richard S. Ward (Stephanie); Nieces and nephews Shelley, Heather, Chris, Brandon, Adam, Mat, Ben, Tim, Nic, Kim, Lindsey, and Kelly as well as their spouses and children.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Mary Brandon (Crisp) and William Corneilus Ward, Sr. who considered him their favorite son-in-law, as well as his parents, step-mother Pauline K. Stark, and his brother Thomas F. Stark.

A Celebration of Life and interment at Fort Jackson National Cemetery are planned for a future date.

The family wishes to thank Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park for their support during this time.

Opal Smith, 94, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2025.  She was born on February 10, 1931 to the late John Richard Smith an...
08/05/2025

Opal Smith, 94, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2025. She was born on February 10, 1931 to the late John Richard Smith and Mamie Popwell Smith. In addition to her parents, Opal was pre-deceased by her husband Wilford T. (Bill) Smith, Sr., all 6 sisters, a brother, and an infant great-great grandson.
Mrs. Smith is survived by her children Kathy Boone (Howard), Janet Mefford, Cindy Boone (Troy), and Wilford T. (Ted) Smith, Jr., as well as 9 grandchildren, Tammy Smith, Dawn Espinoza, Gregg Boone, Michael Mefford, Heidi Corder, Wesley Boone, Shanna Murphy, Spike Smith and Lisa Johnson. These 9 awarded Opal with 24 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren, so far.
Opal was a member of Dunn’s Chapel for many years. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great and great-great grandmother. She will be missed by all who know and love her.
Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Dunn’s Chapel located at 281 Chapel Rd., West Columbia, SC, with visitation beginning at 1:00 pm at the church. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery. Pallbearers and Honorary Pallbearers are Opal’s handsome and able great grandsons.
The family extends a special thank you to Dee Nix, her Prisma Hospice nurse, other staff, as well as the Paramedic and Springdale Police Officer assistance during this journey, especially Marcus and Chad.
Memorials may be made to Dunn’s Chapel Church, 281 Chapel Rd., West Columbia, SC 29172.

Cynthia Beddow Rutland, 90, of Gaston, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025. Born on June 11, 1935, i...
08/05/2025

Cynthia Beddow Rutland, 90, of Gaston, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025. Born on June 11, 1935, in England, she was the daughter of the late John and Elizabeth Beddow.
Cynthia was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of many years, Fred Rutland, who passed away in April 2000. Together, they built a loving home and raised four children: Charlotte, Steve, Ricky, and Debbie.
Cynthia was known for her strong work ethic and warm heart. She was employed with K-Mart for 35 years, where she formed lasting friendships and was cherished by coworkers and customers alike. Her dedication and cheerful spirit made a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
A woman of deep faith, Cynthia was a longtime member of New Hope Worship Center, where she found comfort, community, and joy in worship and fellowship.
She is survived by her loving sister, Barbara, and brother-in-law Jim Rowe; a niece, Sarah; and a nephew, Jonathon, all of England. Her legacy also lives on through her grandchildren—Alex, Michelle, Shane Nelson, Christy, and another Michelle—and her great-granddaughter, McKenzie.
Cynthia will be remembered for her kindness, steadfast faith, and unwavering love for her family. Her gentle presence and encouraging words will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Nancy Sue Rouse, 90, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on July 30, 2025. She was born on March 31, 1935 i...
08/01/2025

Nancy Sue Rouse, 90, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on July 30, 2025. She was born on March 31, 1935 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late Leroy and Winnie Marlar.

She graduated from high school in Marietta, Georgia where she married her lifelong partner, Richard Rouse, who was in the Air Force. They lived in various places across the United States. While living in Virginia she attended the College of William and Mary. Her husband retired from the Air Force in Sumter, South Carolina where Nancy graduated from the Toumey Hospital Program as a Licensed Practical Nurse. After they moved to Columbia, South Carolina, she worked at the Veterans Administration Hospital until leaving to care for her grandchildren.

Nancy was a loving, devoted wife to her husband, Richard Rouse. They were married for a memorable 60 years. She was able to share the remainder of her life with her grandchildren, whom she loved. She was a strong Christian and shared her faith with them, as well the knowledge and wisdom she gained throughout her life. She was a beloved mother and grandmother who will live forever in our hearts.

She is survived by her daughter, Terrie McLaughlin, and grandchildren, Sarah and Sam McLaughlin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Rouse, daughter, Linda Sue Weir, and grandson, Michael McLaughlin.

A graveside service will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park at Serenity Gardens, 6601 Windwan Drive, Columbia, South Carolina, on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 10am with Reverend David Spears officiating. Memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Arrie Ruth Herlong Tisdale, age 102 of West Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 at her home.  She was the wid...
07/31/2025

Arrie Ruth Herlong Tisdale, age 102 of West Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 at her home. She was the widow of Carl Eugene “Gene” Tisdale, Sr.

Born on 17 June 1923 in St. Matthews, SC, she was the daughter of the late Hampton Lafayette Herlong and Vivian Sallie Sikes. She is also preceded in death by her son Carl Eugene Tisdale, Jr., great grandsons Logan Everette Tisdale and Jacob Eli Tisdale, sisters Lucille Anderson, Margaret Checinski, and Vivian Sowell, and brothers Marion Herlong and James Herlong.

She is survived by her children Larry Steven Tisdale and his wife Patti, Ruth Tisdale Henry and her husband Bill, Mike Allen Tisdale and his wife Nan, and daughter-in-law Brenda Tisdale; her grandchildren Larry Steven Tisdale, Jr (Tina), Joshua David Tisdale (Kristi), Kristen Bearden Cason (Alex), Ashley Tisdale Marchbanks (Mike), Erin Tisdale Smith (Joshua), Elizabeth Colleen Tisdale, Carl James Tisdale (Tiffany) and Allison Tisdale Rivers (Jeff).
Along with seventeen loving great grandchildren and many special nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Tisdale was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Cayce where she was very active in her Sunday School class and circle group. She made many precious lifelong friends there.

She was a faithful wife who lovingly cared for her husband during his long illness. She was happiest when surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was an excellent cook, and all her family looked forward to holiday gatherings. While in high school, she had fond memories of working at the 5 and 10 cent store in St. Matthews. She then worked for a short time at Bell Telephone. Later, she and her husband Gene built a successful moving and storage business, Tisdale Transfer and Storage. Even when she became more of a homemaker, she was always available to help out with the business.

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful staff at Amedysis Hospice for their care and kindness; especially her “Special Angels” Dana, Lashondra, and Jackie.

The funeral services for Mrs. Tisdale will be at Thompson Funeral Homes of Lexington on Sunday, 3 August 2025, at 2 o’clock. The family will receive visitors prior to the service beginning at 1 o’clock. Burial will be at Southland Memorial Gardens following the service.

Israel “Izzy” Eli Peterson, 22 months, has been returned into the loving arms of Jesus.  Israel was born to parents, Cla...
07/31/2025

Israel “Izzy” Eli Peterson, 22 months, has been returned into the loving arms of Jesus.
Israel was born to parents, Clarence and Mary. He was a fighter since day one and had a bright, vibrant, and tenacious spirit. He was loving, silly, playful, curious, and most of all, loved by all. He earned his nickname “plunder” from his inquisitive nature of following others around and just plundering what they were doing, whether they were just doing things around the house, or having a snack. He also was known to wake all his siblings up as soon as he was awake by knocking on everyone’s door until they awoke. Israel loved dinosaurs, his snacks (bananas were his favorite!), and dancing to any music that was playing. Israel also loved a good game of hide and seek. He enjoyed going to the library and being read to and going to church with his family. Israel will be deeply missed by all.
Surviving family members include his mother and father; his grandfather, Roger; his siblings Leah, Kevin, Kailey, Cai, and Levi; and many friends of the family.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 6 2025 at 1pm at Thompson Funeral Home, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209, with visitation 1 hour prior. Burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park following the funeral service.

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4720 Augusta Road
Lexington, SC
29073

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Welcome to Thompson

Learn The Legacy

The history of Thompson Funeral Home dates back to 1928 when J.R. "Buddy" Thompson started the business with the simple idea of providing unparalleled personal service to the families of Cayce, West Columbia, and Columbia. In return, through the years the people of this area have been very faithful to Thompson Funeral Home.

As with most depression-era businesses, "Buddy" Thompson was assisted throughout the years by his parents, his wife Bleeka; his sisters, Minnie Price, Inez Sox, and Thelma Morrison; his brothers, Clifford Thompson and E.L. "Tootsie" Thompson; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Thompson Funeral Home has also been fortunate over the years to have many excellent, loyal associates from within the community.

In 1935, "Buddy" Thompson completed the first building in this area that was built strictly for the use as a funeral home. That building still is operational today at 200 State Street in West Columbia. In 1999, Thompson Funeral Home opened its second location (our "Lexington" chapel) at 4720 Augusta Road (Hwy #1) in Lexington to better serve all the families of Lexington County.