William Lloyd Thompson

William Loyd Thompson, born on July 28, 1935, in Oklahoma, passed away on January 10, 2025, in Mississippi. He lived a life marked by adventure, love for the outdoors, and a strong commitment to his family and community.

In 1989, Bill embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by founding Bill's Customs Automatic in Anchorage, Alaska, later relocating the business to Shelby, Mississippi. Alongside his career as a businessman, he proudly served as a police officer in Anchorage, AK, contributing to law enforcement and ensuring the safety of his community.

As an avid outdoorsman, Bill cherished the moments spent hunting and fly fishing in the beautiful landscapes of Alaska. His love for the outdoors shaped not only his hobbies but also his adventurous spirit, which led him to explore various parts of the Western and Southern United States. Bill led an adventurous life. Leaving home at the tender age of 14, he traveled extensively until settling in Alaska, where he worked as a pipeline diver and inspector. It was during this time that he met Emma Jean, his beloved wife, who was working as a receptionist at the clinic he had to go to because he blew his eardrum out diving for an underwater pipeline.

Bill’s military service in the Army further showcased his dedication to duty and his country. He was a believer in freedom and privacy. Bill was respected and admired not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the values he instilled in those around him. His love for the Lord was among his proudest accomplishments, guiding his moral compass throughout his life.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Emma Jean Thompson; his parents, Lloyd and Frankie Thompson; son, Larry Cole; Geneva Piersall; and sister-in-law, Sue Thompson. The family and friends who knew him will remember his adventurous spirit, deep love for the outdoors, and unwavering faith.

In addition to his industrious nature, Bill was a family man, leaving a significant legacy through his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his sons, Tim (Melissa) Thompson of Cleveland, MS, Dale (Brenda) Cole of Anchorage, AK, Michael (Karen) Sbragia of Placerville, CA; brother, Dan Thompson; sisters, Kam Wygant, Joan McGuire, and Gail Thompson, all from Oklahoma; and his cherished grandchildren, Hunter Thompson of Columbia, MO, John Estes III of Charleston, SC, Julian Rocconi (Shelby) of Cleveland, MS, Michael and Jen Cole of Arizona, Brian Cole of Anchorage, AK, Dane Cole, and Joli Luna (Kenneth).

As we reflect on the life of William Loyd Thompson, we celebrate a remarkable individual whose journey intertwined with love, family, and a profound appreciation for life’s adventures. He will be missed and remembered by all whose lives he touched.