A concurrent RESOLUTION

TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR JOHN DAVID THOMPSON FOR A LIFETIME OF DEDICATED COMMUNITY SERVICE AND TO EXTEND BEST WISHES AS HE CONTINUES TO SERVE IN THE DAYS AHEAD.

Whereas, it is with great pleasure that the South Carolina General Assembly recognizes those individuals who give tirelessly of themselves to the welfare of this great state's citizenry. Having spent his life working to enhance the lives of others, John David Thompson exemplifies such South Carolinians; and

Whereas, born the son of the late J.R. "Buddy" and Bleeka Stogner Thompson in Columbia, John Thompson was raised in West Columbia. Following graduation from Brookland-Cayce High School, he earned his bachelor's degree at Charleston Southern University; and

Whereas, as a teenager in 1963, he began working in the family business, Thompson Funeral Home, founded by his father in 1928. The business provided ambulance service, as well as funeral services. In 1972, having received his funeral director's license, the young John embarked on full time duties. Not long thereafter, he assumed the role of manager as his father had died in 1969, and he grew the business steadily. In 1999, he added the Lexington location (a more than 20,000 square foot facility) to better accommodate increasing clientele. John remained engaged in the business for forty years before selling it; and

Whereas, John's contributions to his community go far beyond the services of Thompson Funeral Home. He was founder and vice board chair for Congaree State Bank (now part of United Bank). Currently, he serves on the U.S. Strategic Capital Board and Investment Committee in Atlanta, Georgia; and

Whereas, in addition, John Thompson previously served his community as a member of the Cayce West Columbia Lions Club and the Ruritans, for both of which he held numerous executive offices. He is also a past member of the Cayce West Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Columbia Chamber of Commerce, and West Metro Chamber of Commerce. For the Boy Scouts, he served as an assistant Scoutmaster and was chairman of Etowah Creek District for twelve years. During most of his years of service, the district received the Quality District Award. For his committed labors with the Boy Scouts, he received the Silver Beaver Award. He further serves as an NRA life member; and

Whereas, in his leisure time, this avid outdoorsman and FAA licensed pilot enjoys the sport of shooting and has shot in competition with handguns, rifles, and shotguns. When conditions are favorable, you might find him fishing, boating, flying, motorcycling, hunting, or relishing sports car track days; and

Whereas, the members of the General Assembly recognize that the success of the State of South Carolina, the strength of its communities, and the vitality of American society as a whole depend, in great measure, upon the dedication of individuals like John David Thompson who use their talents and resources to serve others. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, recognize and honor John David Thompson for a lifetime of dedicated community service and extend best wishes as he continues to serve in the days ahead.

Be it further resolved that the copy of this resolution be presented to John David Thompson.

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