Robert A Thompson

Robert Arthur Thompson, born August 6, 1959, in Westmoreland County, Virginia, peacefully departed this life on March 26, 2026, at Memorial Regional Hospital. He was the beloved son of Elnora Thompson and the late Robert J. Thompson.

Robert was educated in Westmoreland County and began working at a young age, carrying with him a strong work ethic that would define much of his life. For over 30 years, he worked for Ronnie Brann and Jerry Withers, he dedicated himself to his work as a machine operator and logger. Even in times of illness, Robert’s determination never wavered—he often spoke of returning to work, a true testament to his resilience and sense of purpose.

A man of quiet strength and independence, Robert was known for being serious in nature, yet he carried a deep love for laughter and the simple joys of life. He knew the Lord at an early age and was baptized later in life at Lyells Chapel Baptist Church, holding firmly to his faith throughout his life. He found peace and comfort in reading the Bible and cherished the values it instilled in him. He often reflected fondly on his upbringing, sharing stories of his parents and siblings, and held a deep appreciation for his family history.

Robert had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, watching westerns, big boat fishing shows, Ice Road Truckers and any old tv shows. He took a special interest in land being cleared, often wondering what would be built there. At home, he found joy in cooking for his family, creating moments that will be treasured forever. He also loved a good plate of chitterlings, pig feet, potato salad with a cold soda—meals that brought him comfort and reflected the traditions he held dear.

He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren, each holding a special place in his heart, and he was proud to see his legacy being carried on. He shared a humorous memory of being nervously driven home by his eldest granddaughter, Macaila, joking that the car felt like it was riding on two wheels. His second oldest grandson, Mycail, always brought him joy with his constant smile. He often joked about Macaila and Mycail’s names being so close together. He cherished the soft-spoken nature of his granddaughter Laila, often teasing that she spoke so gently he could barely hear her at times. He treasured conversations with his granddaughter Jamia, affectionately known as “Babyo,” who would brighten his days by sharing stories about school—what she lovingly called “drama time.” These moments brought him immense joy. He also loved his youngest grandchild, Rylan, and his inquisitive spirit, always curious and eager to learn.

Robert also enjoyed simple pleasures like riding to the store with his brothers, sitting outside on the porch, and talking on the phone with his siblings. He remained independent and self-sufficient throughout his life, even in his final days, preferring not to have a fuss made over him but instead to enjoy the presence and love of those closest to him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert J. Thompson, and his brother, Lawrence Levi Thompson.

Robert leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Elnora Thompson of Haynesville, Virginia; his children, Latoria McSweeney (Michael) of Richmond, Virginia, Tamaria Thompson of Richmond, Virginia, and Deonta Thompson of Mechanicsville, Virginia; and his cherished grandchildren, Macaila McSweeney, Mycail McSweeney, Laila Thompson, Jamia Cooper, and Rylan Lewis.

He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Thompson of Callao, Virginia, Laura Clarke of Tappahannock, Virginia, Theresa Thompson of Haynesville, Virginia, and Marie Smith (James) of Hague, Virginia; his brothers, Randolph Thompson of Callao, Virginia, John Thompson (Florence) of Oldhams, Virginia, and a special brother/cousin, Caul Thompson (Janice) of Sandston, Virginia.

Robert adored his nieces and nephews as if they were his very own, sharing with them the same love, guidance, and presence he gave to his children and grandchildren. His loving memory will be cherished by his nieces and nephews: Cheryl, Denise, Lazarus, Donovan, James, Lawrence, Anthony, Robert, Ivan, John, Jamal, Shontay, Chenelle, Jerel, Olajuwon, Sharon, Desmond, and Lionel, whom he saw as a nephew.

Robert’s memory will also be treasured by his uncles, George Johnson of Heathsville, Virginia, Bernard Johnson of Montross, Virginia, and William Johnson of Richmond, Virginia; and his aunts, Gertrude Pratt of Hague, Virginia, Elsie Reed (Garry) of Heathsville, Virginia, Rener Burrell (William) of Warsaw, Virginia, and Ernestine Day (Jimmy) of Warsaw, Virginia, along with a host of extended family and loved ones.

A special thanks to Gloria Clayton for assisting in his care.

Robert Arthur Thompson will be remembered as a devoted son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend—a man who lived with strength, humility, and love.  

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