John L. Thompson Jr., 79, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States, surrounded by the love of his family following a short battle with cancer. Born on March 27, 1946, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, John was the second of seven children born to John L. Thompson Sr. and Carlene G. Thompson (née Anderson).

John’s early years were shaped by frequent moves due to his father’s naval career.  He attended ten different schools across the United States and Japan before graduating from Princess Anne High School in 1964. He later earned his degree from Old Dominion University in 1970. During his time at ODU, John was a member of Theta Xi fraternity and served as the equipment manager for the Norfolk Neptunes football team.

He began his professional career as a physical education teacher at Plaza Middle School in Virginia Beach, where he also coached baseball, track, and wrestling. After the birth of his older daughter, he transitioned into a successful thirty-year career as a pharmaceutical sales representative with 3M Pharmaceuticals.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, John found pleasure in staying active through running, beach volleyball, tennis, golf, and most recently working out at Inlet Fitness. His passion for sports extended beyond personal enjoyment; he was a dedicated supporter of his grandchildren’s athletic endeavors. Whether it was swim meets or soccer games, wrestling matches or baseball tournaments, John could often be found cheering from the sidelines.

After his retirement, he found joy in learning to play the guitar and spent many evenings listening to live music around Virginia Beach. His love for life and his warm personality left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

He is survived by his daughters Maureen Brand (Dave) and Allison Thompson-Chandler; grandchildren Seth Brand, Chloe Chandler, Chris Brand, Audrey Brand, and Ethan Chandler; siblings Donald Thompson, Nancy Wadden, Mary Ann Silver, and Jim Thompson; as well as his former wife Janet Thompson. He was predeceased by his sisters Janet Duran and Elizabeth Cole; son-in-law Scott Chandler; and second wife Arlene Lindsey.

At John’s request, his family will host a celebration of his life on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Friends are encouraged to wear their favorite Hawaiian shirts or other colorful casual attire. Please contact Maureen.Brand@yahoo.com for additional information. 

Memorial donations can be made to the American Heart Association www.heart.org or Life Net www.lifenethealth.org