Orrin “O.J.” Joseph Thompson III, 81, of Springfield, MO passed away on Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
Orrin was born March 2, 1940, the son of Orrin Thompson II & Dorothy (Davies) Thompson. On December 4, 2004 he married Christine (Groth) Thompson, who survives.
Orrin worked as a School Superintendent for various school districts for 38 years. After retiring from the public education system, he worked as an Administrator for the Senior Age Area Agency on Aging for 3 years and as Librarian of the Library of Taney Hills. He was a former Head Football Coach in Fairfield, IL in the early 1970’s. He enjoyed golfing, boating, antiquing, and collecting circus posters. He enjoyed both watching and participating in sports. His passions were theater, bocce ball, football, and especially watching his grandson play basketball. He loved Christmas time, and he dressed up as Santa for a crowd of over 300 kids at the Branson Rec. Center for 13 years. His favorite day of the year was January 1st, which represented a new year and new opportunities. He cherished spending time with his family and friends, kids and grandkids, and special fur buddy Carlton. He was a member of the B.P.O.E. Elks Lodge for over 50 years, and was a member of the Benton, IL Lodge #1234 and the Springfield, MO Lodge #409. He was also awarded by the Who’s Who of American Educators organization.
Orrin is survived by his wife Christine Thompson of Springfield, MO; a daughter Dody (Larry) Alli of Centralia, IL; a sister Janney Gant of Lake of Egypt, IL; 3 step children: Laura McCluskey, Jennifer Allen, and Becky McCluskey, and 2 grandchildren: Cord Brown & Dannika McCluskey.
He was preceded in death by both parents, a son Jeffrey Thompson, and a brother-in-law Kenny Gant.
A Memorial Service for Orrin “O.J.” Joseph Thompson III will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at Young Funeral Home in Wayne City, IL with Pastor Rusty Courson officiating. Visitation will be held from 12 noon until the time of service at 2:00 pm. Interment will follow the service at Thomason Cemetery in Wayne City.
Online condolences, memories, and words of encouragement may be left at www.youngfuneralhomellc.com