Johnny Alfred Thompson

Johnny Alfred Thompson Sr. was born on June 9, 1951, to the late Benjamin A. Thompson Sr., and Cozy E. Thompson in Cleveland Ohio. Johnny attended grade school in Cleveland Ohio, and he graduated from East High School in 1969. Upon graduation, Johnny began working at General Electric, where he was a dedicated worker. Johnny worked at GE (Pitney Glass Plant) for 18 years, until they closed in 1988. After leaving GE, Johnny worked for Greyhound and preformed line products until he ill.

In 1970, Johnny married Emma Burton and from this union, Johnny A. Thompson Jr. and Donnie L. Thompson were born.

Johnny met the love of his life on a blind date in 1986, and they were married on May 9, 1987. Johnny and LaTanya were married for 33 years.

In 1991 Johnny and his brother ventured into the business world, and they opened a video store and dry cleaners in the inner city.

Johnny accepted Christ, and was baptized on July 28, 1996, at East Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, under the Pastorial leadership of Rev. Dr. A Charles Bowie. Johnny drove the church van for many years, where he formed lasting friendships with the members of the church. He was loved by all for his calm demeanor and willingness to help in any way that he could.

Johnny loved cars, taking pictures, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle, riding horses, shooting pool and most of all, spending time with his family. He was affectionately known by his grandchildren as Papa, and to them he was the best person in the world. He would create swimming pools in the back of his pick-up truck, take them on wagon rides (in the infamous wagon), frequent trips to the corner store, and many other fun things that only a Papa would do. He made up silly songs and dances, that they looked forward to every time they seen or talked to him. Papa was one of a kind.

Johnny was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and friend. He will definitely be missed. Johnny was preceded in death by his brothers, Alphonso Thompson and Benjamin A. Thompson. He leaves to cherish his memories; his wife La Tanya of 33 years; sisters, Gwendolyn A Crawley, Larzetta Brand, Sharon D. Williams-Hodge and Georgia L. Williams, brother, Dwaine Thompson; sons, Johnny A. Thompson Jr. (Shannon), Donnie Thompson; daughter, La Keysha Monique Davis (Arlyn Sr.); Grandchildren, Johnny A Thompson III (Bear), Arlyn K. Davis Jr. (Booke), Justin Thompson, Airiyan Janae’, and Aaron Kae’von; great grandson, Arlyn Keith Davis III, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.