Remembering Lives Well-Lived: Charles and Virginia Thompson

News Summary

Jacksonville and Beardstown honor the memories of Charles Merville Thompson, Jr. and Virginia Irene Thompson. Both individuals left behind rich legacies of love, kindness, and community service, influencing the lives of many. Friends and family remember their unique stories and remarkable contributions to their communities as memorial services are planned.

Remembering Two Lives Well-Lived: Charles Merville Thompson, Jr. and Virginia Irene Thompson

Jacksonville, Florida, and Beardstown, Illinois, stand in solemn remembrance of two cherished souls lost this past year. As family and friends gather to celebrate their lives, the memories and legacy they leave behind continue to warm hearts.

Celebrating Charles Merville Thompson, Jr.

Charles Merville Thompson, Jr., affectionately known as “Chase”, passed away on December 10, 2024, at the age of 67. A proud resident of Jacksonville, Chase’s journey began on April 28, 1957, when he was welcomed into the world by his loving parents, Charles and Joanne Thompson. Survived by his mother and his devoted sister, Polly Thompson, Chase leaves behind a family that deeply cherished him.

Chase’s academic and athletic endeavors flourished at Bolles High School, where he made memories not just as a student but as a member of the golf and swimming teams. His lifelong passion for swimming was a defining aspect of his leisure time. Continuing his education, he graduated from the prestigious University of Florida with a degree in Finance and made lasting friendships as a member of the SAE fraternity. His early career found him working at his father’s finance and money management firm, where he honed skills that would serve him well throughout his life.

Outside the office, Chase was passionate about gardening—a skill he inherited from his father, a master gardener. Those who knew him recall the stunning bouquets of roses he often gifted, a reflection of the love and creativity he poured into his gardening. Additionally, Chase enjoyed memorable golfing adventures, including a trip to Scotland with his father to play on iconic courses. The thrill of fishing trips with his cousins to Central Florida was another highlight that brought him joy.

A devoted fan of the Florida Gators, Chase rarely missed a home game, proudly sporting his orange and blue attire. He had a knack for poker, enjoying countless games at the Orange Park poker room. Known for his exceptional kindness, he dedicated his time to helping elderly neighbors, embodying truly what it means to be a good neighbor.

While a private family service has been arranged to honor his memory, friends and community members are invited to consider memorial contributions to Ortega United Methodist Church in Chase’s name, celebrating the spirit of giving he so dearly embraced.

Honoring Virginia Irene Thompson

In Beardstown, the community mourns the loss of 91-year-old Virginia Irene Thompson, who passed away on September 8, 2024, at Walker Nursing Home. Born on April 25, 1933, Virginia was the daughter of Ancle and Lela Smith Sonneborn. She married Myron L. Thompson on April 17, 1955, and together they built a loving family. Virginia is survived by her four children—Jackie, Julie, Bill (Della), and Susan (John)—along with three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, a legacy of love that will undoubtedly carry forth her memory.

A talented individual, Virginia graduated from Greenfield High School, tying for Salutatorian in 1952. She pursued a nursing degree from the Passavant School of Nursing, graduating in 1955. Her career spanned many years at Springfield Hospital, Cass County Health Department, and Beardstown Hospital, where she dedicated herself to caring for others.

An active member of the First United Methodist Church, she was involved in numerous volunteer organizations, including the United Methodist Women and the Beardstown Emblem Club #474. Virginia’s community service extended to volunteering with Cass/Schuyler Area Hospice, exemplifying her lifelong commitment to helping others.

In her free time, Virginia found joy in quilting, gardening, and hosting Friday dinners with friends—a true celebration of community and camaraderie. A memorial service is scheduled for September 13, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share memories, and pay their respects. The service will begin at 12:30 PM following a visitation at the church from 11 AM until the service, concluding with a burial at the Beardstown City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Cass/Schuyler Area Hospice, a fitting tribute to a woman who devoted her life to caring for others.

As the communities of Jacksonville and Beardstown come together, the legacies of Chase and Virginia will live on through the lives they touched and the love they shared.

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Additional Resources

• Legacy Remembers: Richard Thompson
• Wikipedia: Obituary
• Jacksonville.com: Obituary for Charles Thompson
• Google Search: Charles Thompson Obituary
• Colwell Memorial Home: Virginia Thompson
• Google Scholar: Virginia Thompson Obituary
• Legacy: Gloria Thompson Memorial
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gloria Thompson
• Jacksonville.com: Another Obituary
• Google News: Virginia Irene Thompson