James Lee Thompson, 78, passed away Sunday, November 17 following an extended illness. "Jim" was born in Pulaski, VA on June 27, 1935 to Sylvia Ogle Thompson and Drewery Thompson. He spent his childhood years in Pulaski before joining the Marines at the age of 18. He served honorably in the Korean War and returned to Pulaski after his service. Jim began his career in the textile industry which led him to Hartsville, SC (1966-1976), North Augusta, SC (1976-1985) and finally to Lancaster, SC, retiring at the age of 60. He had a tremendous work ethic and worked his way up thru the ranks in management. Upon retiring, Jim was able to spend his time doing the things he really enjoyed most, gardening, cooking and spending time with his family. He loved his grandkids, who called him "Popi", more than anything and would light up when they visited. The holidays were especially joyful as Popi would cook a feast for the family to enjoy. Jim and Frances moved to Milton, FL in 2010 where he spent his final years. Although his health decreased over time his spirit never did. He never complained about his condition and found comfort in the little things in life. He will be remembered as a thoughtful, compassionate, caring man who never met a stranger and was a friend to all that met him. Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Frances (O'Dell) Thompson, his siblings, Junior and Betty Thompson, Richard and Irene Thompson, Bobby and Merrianne Thompson, Gary Thompson, Pauline (Thompson) and Jack Whittington, Juanita (Thompson) and Harvey Wilson, Betty (Thompson) and Richard Gallimore, and Linda (Thompson) and John Durham, his son Steve and Lori Thompson, his daughter Cindy (Thompson) and Mark Neal, his grandkids Brennan and Kaylen Thompson, Summer and Savannah Neal, and Amy and Tyler Petresky. Funeral services will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery on Friday, November 22 at 1015. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.