21,
OBITUARY
Larry Donnell Thompson, a beloved husband, son, father, Papa, brother and friend known for his big heart and booming laughter, left us on September 17, 2024. Donnell peacefully transitioned in his sleep to the surprise and devastation of all who love him dearly Born on October 27, 1958 in Lumberton, NC, he lived a full life with the richness of his most cherished family, loved ones and many notable accomplishments.
Donnell is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Thompson; son, Larry Donnell Thompson II of Chapel Hill, NC; daughters, Nashica Thompson McRath of Duluth, GA, Akua Carraway (Mitch) of Garner, NC, and Apri Gassaway (Jermaine) of Wake Forest, NC; grandchildren, Alexandria McRath, Mitchell Carraway II, Amelia McRath, Emory Thompson, Parker Carraway, Abigail Gassaway, and Gabriel Gassaway; his loving mother, Berthel Thompson of Lumberton, NC, and mother-in-law, Mildred Ellerby of Wilmington, NC; brothers, Richard Thompson of Lumberton, NC, and William Knox Thompson of Decatur, GA; a special nephew, Darrius Thompson (Sade) and their children, Tristan and Aubrey Thompson of Rolesville, NC; his beloved aunt and uncle, William and Louise Clark of Lumberton, NC; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Doug Thompson
Donnell graduated from Lumberton High School with All American honors, All Conference honors, All State Team honors, and Adidas High School All American He was recruited by several major universities across the United States but decided to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Go Heels! Donnell went on to have a remarkable college football career as a student athlete, graduating from the university in 1981 He received honors as an ACC All-American player and served on the UNC Board of Visitors.
He was drafted into the National Football League by the Baltimore Colts in 1981 as a firstround draft pick. He played with the Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts for 11 years with honors including Miller Lite Player of the Year, Defense Player of the Year, and Defense Lineman of the Year with the Indianapolis Colts. He maintained membership in the National Football League (NFL) Players Association
Donnell was an astute businessman, who moved into the world of franchising after a successful career in the NFL He owned and developed a number of businesses including McDonald’s restaurants, receiving the Golden Hat award from McDonald’s Corporation for operating all restaurants with a AAA standard of quality, cleanliness, and profitability. He has also developed other successful brands, such as Marriott Hotels and quick service restaurants in the southeastern United States. Also a licensed realtor and real estate developer, Donnell developed, constructed, owned, and operated several commercial and residential properties and constructed million-dollar residential homes and commercial mental health facilities.
Among many esteemed honors, Donnell also received a key to the city of Lumberton and was inducted as a member of the Robeson County Hall of Fame. Most recently, the National High School Football Hall of Fame Foundation board of directors selected Donnell to be honored and enshrined into the 2025 class of the National High School Football Hall of Fame
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want I can do all this through him who gives me strength ”
4:11-13
ORDER OF SERVICE
The Reverend Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine, Presiding
MUSICAL PRELUDE
THE PROCESSIONAL
THE INVOCATION
MUSICAL SELECTION
THE SCRIPTURE READINGS
The Old Testament - Psalm 23
The New Testament - Matthew 11:28-30
MUSICAL SELECTION
REFLECTIONS
THE READING OF RESOLUTIONS
THE SILENT READING OF THE OBITUARY
SOLO THE EULOGY
THE MORTICIAN’S BRIEF
THE RECESSIONAL
Immediately following the service, the family will travel to the final resting place at Meadowbrook Cemetery, 2640 N. Walnut Street, Lumberton, NC A repast will be held directly after the burial at First Baptist Church, 606 N Walnut Street, Lumberton, NC
Just close your Eyes and open your heart, And feel your worries and cares depart. Just yield yourself to the Father above, And let him hold you secure in his love.
by Helen Steiner Rice
For life on earth grows more involved, With endless problems that can't be solved, But God only asks us to do our best, Then he will take over and finish the rest.
So when you are tired, discouraged and blue, There is always one door that is open to you, And that is the door to The House of Prayer, And you'll find God waiting to meet you there. And The House of Prayer is no further away, than the quiet spot where you kneel and pray.
For the heart is a temple when God is there
As we place ourselves in his loving care. And he hears every prayer and answers each one When we Pray in His name - Thy will be done. The burdens that seemed too heavy to bear Are lifted away on the wings of a prayer.
Dr. Akinwande Ademosu
Harvey Armstrong
Donald Lucas
Terry McEachin
IN APPRECIATION PALLBEARERS
Delton Saddler
Barry Saunders
Harry Stanback
The family of Larry Donnell Thompson acknowledges with gratitude, the heartfelt prayers, words of comfort, cards, visits and generosities extended to us during the passing of our loved one. It is our prayer that God will continue to richly bless each of you.
Special thanks to Dr. Martha Peck and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Pathology for your guidance and support during this difficult time.
Memorial contributions can be made to the UNC Department of Athletics Football Program in lieu of flowers. For online donations, scan QR code. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 2126, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. Include memo: “FB-in memory of Donnell Thompson”
