Condolence From: Bill & HelenSue Parrish
Condolence: Dear Thompson family,
We became friends with your parents through Trinity Presbyterian Church. Also your father would go with us to the Civil War Roundtable meetings. One day we enjoyed a lovely brunch with them on their patio.
Of course we always admired your mother's beautiful paintings and your father's piano selections. One particularly special moment at Trinity was when Harold accompanied on the piano while Chris played the violin. We've enjoyed our CD of Chris's performances.
They both certainly left their marks in the Starkville community. I know they were glad that they could stay in their own home until the end. I happened to take a poinsettia to them when the caregivers told me that your mother had just died. I went to comfort your father. May God Bless each of you as you have special memories of your parents. We look forward to seeing you at Harold's memorial service.
Tuesday October 20, 2020
Condolence From: Sherry Cheng
Condolence: Dr. Thompson was my piano teacher from when I was 14 to when I graduated from Starkville High School in 1992. He was much more than a piano teacher to me, but an inspiring mentor throughout my formative years, both in music and in life. I remember marathon lessons, listening to recordings of great pianists together, lunches made by Mrs. Thompson with a view of his beautiful garden. He was so generous with his time and so dedicated to my growth as a musician. It is solely because of him that I truly fell in love with music and became the musician that I am today. He drove me to piano competitions, found sponsors to help my family rent a piano when we were new immigrants to the US, and spent countless extra hours sharing his many wisdoms with me over the years. He made me aware of the magic of touch and sound on the piano, demonstrating and dancing as I played. He used to joke he wanted to play a recital of pieces for arthritic fingers, because even with severe arthritis, he could still produce the most rich, fat tone. I will always remember the many lessons I had in his house, and years later when I returned to play again on that piano, and bringing my family back to Mississippi to visit him. I'm sure he is making beautiful music wherever he is! Sending love and light to the family.
Saturday September 12, 2020
Condolence From: Joe and Becky Stockwell
Condolence: Our long friendship with Harold and Frances enriched our lives beyond measure, and we have so many happy memories to treasure. Our deepest condolences go out to the entire Thompson family.
Friday September 11, 2020
Condolence From: Amy Fortenberry
Condolence: I'm so very sorry for your loss. Dr. Thompson was my Music Theory professor for 2 years at MSU. He was incredibly gifted and kind. Upon entering his class, he would always be playing some incredibly difficult piano piece, all while either groaning or talking under his breath. When he would be explaining some aspect of theory, and the class would be raising their hands due to confusion, his favorite mantra was, "Don't push the panic button! You'll understand this in just a minute!" He was unique in his teaching approach and cared that you learn what he said. He gave loving, constructive criticism and was quick to praise when warranted. May God grant you all comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Wednesday September 09, 2020
Condolence From: Susan Craddock
Condolence: I'm sorry to see this. I sure loved Mr Harold... I've walked around his garden with him several times. He told me to NEVER thank someone gifting you with plants from their garden. I say that to anyone I share my garden plants with. Prayers for the family!
Tuesday September 08, 2020
