Francis "Frank" J. Thompson

Francis J. “Frank” Thompson, 67, of Monmouth, IL, passed away at 8:37 pm, Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at the Aledo Health and Rehabilitation Center, Aledo, IL.  Frank was a very kind, free spirited person. He touched many people's lives and enriched his family, friends, and community in his lifetime.

Francis “Frank” Joseph Thompson was born on May 8, 1952 in Monmouth, IL, the son of Robert C. and Elizabeth (Mills) Thompson. His early years were spent on his family’s farms with his parents and eight siblings. He was educated in Warren County attending Barr school house, Little York, Kirkwood and then Roseville High School where he graduated in 1970.

Frank had farmed in his early years with his family. As an adult he began a commercial painting business that he did for many years. Later he worked for Thompson Trucking and also led a detassling crew for several summers.

Frank married Kaye Sparrow in Raritan, IL in 1976.

Frank had many interests and hobbies. He loved sports. He enjoyed playing sports, watching sports and even listening to them on the radio. Poetry was also a great love of his. Frank wrote hundreds of poems and compiled two "Poetry in Motion" books that contained some of his poems and many more from people in the community.  He also compiled three "American Farmer" books during the farm crisis in the 80"s, which was an issue that was very important to him. Frank was also very concerned with all the problems and plight in the world and set out on a campaign to "Change the World". He may not have known, but he did a lot to change the world for the better in his deeds and actions. Frank also loved music and attended many great concerts. Tractor pulls were also a big thrill for Frank and he spent many summer days in the sweltering heat and a jug of water watching them. Animals also were very dear to Frank and he and his family had many pets over the years. Most of all however, Frank loved spending time with his family and friends which he had no shortage of. Frank was a wonderful father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and person and the world was made a better place for having his spirit intertwined with so many along his path. We will miss and love him forever.

Frank is survived by his son Mitch (Crystal) Thompson, Stronghurst, IL; daughter, Jamie (Justin) Raymond, Kirkwood, IL; his grandsons, Nolan Raymond, Cormick Raymond, Trent Raymond, Matthias Thompson   and Ashton Thompson; his siblings, Ann Ringoen of Reynolds, IL, Steve (Kathy) Thompson of Kirkwood, IL, Bob (Kathy) Thompson Kirkwood, IL,  Bill (Diane) Thompson of Avon, IL, Roy Thompson of Roseville, IL, Ed (Annette) Thompson of Lake Warren, IL, Rose Boaz of Monmouth, IL and Joe (Amy) Thompson of Berwick, IL. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one niece, Amy Thompson.

A private family graveside service will be Saturday, April 4, 2020 at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Monmouth, IL. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.   Memorials can be made to the Frank Thompson Memorial Fund and left at the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements.