Richard Thompson was born in Lauderdale, Mississippi to the late Rouveleman Thompson and Rosie Lee Croff.  At an early age, his family relocated to New Jersey where he resided until he enlisted in the United States Army.  Upon discharge from the army in Germany, he dedicated himself to further his career advancement by attending trucking school and obtaining his CDL and Boating license.

Richard believed in hard work and was very dedicated. Anyone who knew him could depend upon his reliability and honesty, admirable qualities that are held in high esteem.

Left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory are his daughter Olegna Melissa Thompson Douglas: three grandchildren, Cevonne Douglas, Sevonna pierce and Richard Douglas: and his great grandson, Malakhi Douglas.  He is also survived by his sister Justina Wilson (Alfonzie): one great aunt, Winnie Faye Thompson, two uncles Lott Thompson and John Thompson and a host of other loving family members. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Rouvele Thompson and Gene Croff and sister Rosie Houston.