Perry moved back to his beloved Ozark Mountains in 2000 December 5, 1923 in Manes, Mo., Charles and Ollie Price Thompson looked upon their seventh of nine children with love and joy. The new baby boy, Perry Laclede Thompson, joined five siblings, Mildred, Eva, Chester, Raymond and Judah. The second oldest child Edna, had passed away at a young age. Two younger brothers, Lavelle and Linda Thompson were born after Perry.
Perry’s childhood, like most growing up in the 30′s required all family members to pitch in. He did his chores and along with brothers hunted rabbits, and squirrels for food. He often said it was hard times for everyone. His love for God and family enveloped through his youth with the support of Grandparents, Aunts, uncles, and cousins all working together.
One only had to be around Perry a short time to know he lived a Christian life, introduced to him in childhood. He was honest and had a code of ethics that contributed to a successful life. He served in the Army and worked various jobs until settling in Kansas City, Mo. Perry retired from the Kansas City Water Dept. where he was a supervisor and left the employees that loved and respected him.
Moving back to his beloved Ozark Mountains in 2000 he met his Ruthie and opened another chapter of his life. They were married May 15, 2008. He felt blessed in gaining two sons a daughter-in-law, and eight grandchildren, the family union he had known as a child.
He is survived by his wife, Ruthie; sons Gene and Buster Sharp, and Gene’s wife Lori; eight grandchildren; and other family members too numerous to mention; and a very special brother-in-law and fishing partner, Ken Shipman of Independence, Mo.
Services for Perry were held Tuesday, March 24, at 10 a.m. at Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Ava, with the Revs. Robert Grisham and Lester Platt officiating. Interment followed in the Ava Cemetery. Visitation was Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the funeral home. The family requests memorials to Ava Senior Citizens Center or Neighbor Helping Neighbor. Online condolences may be made to www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome. com.
