Thompson Funeral Homes

10/22/2026

Christina Ann Thayer, 89, passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Christina was born on December 25, 1936, in Tipperary, Ireland to the late Phillip and Catherine Anne (Gavan) Harty. Christina’s life began with Irish roots that would forever be a part of her story.
She was one of ten children and is preceded in death by her nine siblings: Michael Harty, Bridget Dunbar, Thomas Harty, Kathleen Carroll, Brendan Harty, Vincent Harty, Denis Harty, Patricia Blair, and John Leo Harty.
On June 6, 1957, Christina married the love of her life, Francis Robert Thayer, in Surrey, England. Together, they shared 52 years of marriage, building a life and family filled with cherished memories. They especially enjoyed traveling the world to visit family and friends, spending hours tending to their flower gardens, and browsing antique stores. Francis preceded her in death on March 27, 2009. Their enduring love and the family they created remain a lasting testament to the beautiful life they shared.
Together they raised five daughters in the Columbia area. Survivors include Anita (Timothy) Ragsdale, Frances Matthews, Katheryn (Charles) Hager, and Sara Thayer. She was also preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Roxana Campbell.
Mrs. Thayer’s legacy lives on through her seven grandchildren: James (Samantha) Hager, Catherine (Brian) Rucker, Jason (Melanie) Matthews, Justin (Rachel) Matthews, Charles Hager, Christina (Rod) Turner and McKenzie Ragsdale; as well as twelve great grandchildren.
Christina loved reading any book she could get her hands on and could often be found working on crossword puzzles. An avid admirer of the royal family, she never missed a royal wedding or major broadcast, finding great joy in following their history and traditions. Known for making everyone feel welcome, Christina created countless cherished memories around the kitchen table with the people who meant the most to her. She was always ready for a good conversation and, of course, a cup of her beloved English tea.
Christina was a devout Roman Catholic and a parishioner of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Columbia, South Carolina. Her life was a testament to faith, family, love, friendship, and resilience.
Christina’s passing leaves an irreplaceable space in the hearts of those who loved her. While saying goodbye is never easy, her family can find comfort in knowing that the love shared across generations does not end with a final farewell.
May God welcome Christina into His loving arms, grant her eternal peace, and bring comfort to all who mourn her passing. May her memory be a blessing, her faith be her comfort, and her love live on for generations to come.
A visitation will be held on Monday, October 26 at 1pm at Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209. A graveside service will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park Serenity Gardens 6601 Windwan Drive, Columbia, SC 29209.

View Christina Ann Thayer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/21/2026

John Bradford “Brad” Wesson was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his daughters, Maria Taylor (Thomas Sr.) and Wanda Sherman (Tommy Ray) and his son, Donald James Wesson (Sheri). His grandchildren are Thomas Lee Taylor Jr., Leanne Nicole Mills, Donald “DJ” Wesson Jr, and Nicholas Wesson and his great-grandchildren are Matthew Lee Taylor, Elijah Tate Mills, Zaylie Wesson, Lochland Wesson, Fynn Wesson, and Alyria Wesson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Lee (Sutton) Wesson, and his son, John H. Wesson.

Brad Wesson was a faithful and devoted Christian. He was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church for 55 years. He shared nearly 40 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Susan and was a faithful and devoted husband. He also coached teen baseball for over 40 years and loved volunteering and being part of the Dixie League Baseball community.

Brad served in the U.S. Navy from 1968-1971 during the Vietnam War. After his military service he worked for Perry-Mann & CED for over 30 years. He lived in Lexington, South Carolina, in the same home from 1971 until his death, where he and his wife, Susan, raised their children

Visitation with the family of John Bradford “Brad” Wesson, of Lexington, will be held at 10:00 am with funeral services at 11:00 am on Thursday, October 22, 2026 at Calvary Baptist Church, 1724 W. Main Street in Lexington. Burial will follow at Celestial Memorial Gardens. Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington is assisting the family.

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/lexington-south-carolina/john-wesson/october-2026

10/21/2026

Gloria “Jean” Wilson, 72, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was a devoted wife, mother and MawMaw.
Some of the joys in her life could be found no further than her sewing room where she enjoyed sewing, quilting, and crafting for her friends and family.
She was an avid camper and traveled often to her favorite place, Maggie Valley. Sweet moments were always found with her by the campfire. She cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Jean dedicated her life to children’s ministry as an Ordained Minister in the Church of God for more than 25 years along with Mr. Ron, her greatest supporter and chief architect of her wacky, wonderful creations. Her passion for children reached far beyond the walls of the church touching countless lives for Christ. She was lovingly known as “Mrs. Jean” by every child throughout the years.
She was constantly searching for ways to advance the Kingdom by guiding other children’s ministries throughout the state through seminars and training. Her knowledge, talent and passion has made a lasting impact on children’s ministry in South Carolina.
She had a zest for life that was contagious. Knowing her meant knowing you always had a friend, a partner in crime and a shoulder to lean on. There was no greater cheerleader or supporter you could have in your corner. She leaves a legacy of faith, love and joy.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Ron Wilson, daughter Mandy Roland (Greg), son James Wilson (Danielle), grandchildren Kirsten Alderman (Matthew), Katrina Poore(Alex), Dalton Roland, David Wilson, Kayden Roland, Angelina Crimmins, Aubrey Wilson; great grandchildren Leland Alderman, Pierson Poore, Miles Poore, and a fourth great grandchild on the way.
She is also survived by her siblings, Lester Steele, Alvin Steele (Debbie) and Christy Steele. As well as numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/lexington-south-carolina/gloria-wilson/october-2026

10/20/2026

"Well done thy good and faithful servant."
Herman Gerald, beloved Husband, Father, Papa, Grandpa, and American hero, passed away surrounded by his family into the arms of Jesus, after a courageous and valiant fight, on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Herman was born in Horry County, SC, June 12, 1932 to Charlie and Tossie Ann Gerald.
Herman loved his Lord, his family, and his country. He served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years in French Morocco, Korea, Thailand, Libya, North Africa, and numerous assignments in the United States. He married the love of his life, Edith Martin Gerald, in 1954, and was deployed within months to French Morocco. After 20 years of military service, Herman retired to West Columbia, SC, where he held several other positions before eventually retiring and enjoying gardening and working in his yard.
Herman was a hard worker, a man of his word, a devoted husband and father, believed in living frugally, and faithful follower of His Lord. He was a baker by trade and was often told he made the best cakes. He absolutely loved laughing and pulling pranks on his grandchildren. They often referred to him as "Birdman" believing his legs looked like bird legs. Although he was unable to attend Laurel Baptist Church the last few years of his life, he loved his Church and Church family. Even until the end when he was no longer able to physically serve, God allowed him to still support the work of the Church. Herman's favorite song, "Thank You, Lord, For Your Blessings on Me," exemplified his love of his Lord and his family.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 72 years, Edith Martin Gerald, his children, Brenda Strickland (Bob), Donna Boles (Bob), and Ron Gerald (Paula), all of West Columbia; his grandchildren, Robert Strickland (Utah), Angela Strickland Holladay, Elizabeth Dickerson (Zach), Jennifer Boles Smith (Derrick), and Bob Lee Boles, all of West Columbia, Jeannette Snyder (Dan) (TX), Crystal Tarltan (Branden) (NC), Ronnie Gerald, Jr. (Elise) (Okinawa), John Gerald (Katie) (Charleston), and Katie Goff (Greg) (Columbia); precious great-grandchildren, Jacob Strickland, Austin Dickerson, Nick Dickerson, Rashaun Carmichael, Megan Snyder, Addison Tarlton, Peyton Tarlton, Savannah Gerald, Amelia Goff, and Oliver Gerald. In addition, he leaves behind five great-great grandchildren. Left to cherish his memory are dear nephews, Kenny Prince (Ann) and Gene Milligan (Wanda); and niece, Debbie Sputo (Dominic).
He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Berkley Gerald, and sister, Flossie Prince, of Loris, SC. He was also predeceased by his precious great-granddaughter, Kiana Carmichael.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Laurel Baptist Church, 2250 Pine St., West Columbia, SC 29170 or consider packing one, two, or ten Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes in memory of Herman to share the gospel around the world.
A funeral service will be held at Laurel Baptist Church, 2250 Pine Street, West Columbia, SC on Friday, October 23, 2026 at 4:00 with military honors; visitation will be one hour prior to service and interment will be in Southland Cemetery Mausoleum immediately following the service.
The family is comforted in knowing he is in the arms of his Lord and Savior, and we will one day be with him again.

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/lexington-south-carolina/herman-gerald/october-2026

10/20/2026

Mrs. Alice D. King, born on April 16, 1934, in Sumter, South Carolina went to be with Her Lord and Savior on October 17, 2026, in Columbia, SC.
She was the daughter of the Late Leon A. and Sarah Lois Russell Dellinger. Mrs. King moved from Sumter to North Charleston in 1948. She graduated from North Charleston High School Class of 1953.
During her tenure of work, she worked at Atlantic Coast life Insurance Company in Charleston, SC. She retired from the Prudential District Office in Columbia, South Carolina. She was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church, Retired member of the Altar Guild and attended Sunday school. She was a member of DAR, David Hopkins Chapter
She was married to the Late John Benton (J.B.) King for 56 years. Together they had two sons, Johnny King (Linda) of Hopkins and Ronnie King (Melissa) of West Columbia, and one daughter Kathy King Sutton (John) of Sumter.
Mrs. King has seven grandchildren, Christie King, Lisa McDowell (Shane), Kyle King, Harley King, Rylee King, Jason Sutton (Jenna) and Tyler Sutton (Allison). Eight great grandchildren, Mary Harper, Rowe and Kinson Sutton, Bryson, Hudson, and Makenzie McDowell, Swisher and Reid Sutton. She also leaves several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sister Lois Calder.
Funeral Service will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church, 2827 Wheat Street at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026. Visitation will be held at 11:30 am prior to the Service at the church. The Family will have a Private Burial following the Service. Pallbearers will be Jason Sutton, Tyler Sutton, Kyle King, Shane McDowell, Phil Klugh, and Robert Blizzard.
In lieu of flowers, send memorials to St. John Episcopal Church 2827 Wheat Street, Columbia, SC 29205 or St. Jude Children Hospital.

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/columbia-south-carolina/alice-king/october-2026

10/19/2026

Ronald E. Pelfrey, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026, at Warrior's Walk at the W.J.B. Dorn VA Medical Center following a courageous battle with metastatic cancer. He was 81 years old.

Born on June 15, 1945, to R.E. and Hazel (Brock) Pelfrey, Ronald lived a life marked by faith, service, dedication, and a deep love for his family and friends. Throughout his life, he faithfully served his country, his community, and, above all, his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ronald proudly served his country as an Army officer during the Vietnam War with the 82nd Airborne Division. His commitment to service continued throughout his life, reflecting the strength, discipline, and sense of duty that defined him.

A gifted athlete and dedicated student, Ronald graduated from East Tennessee State University, where he played football and served as captain of the team. He was recognized as a conference defensive lineman and was an active member of Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity and Scabbard and Blade, a military honor society. His years at East Tennessee State helped shape the leadership, camaraderie, and determination that remained hallmarks of his life.

Following his undergraduate studies, Ronald earned his Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He answered God's calling to ministry and faithfully served as a pastor for more than 50 years, shepherding congregations in North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina. His ministry was defined by his love for the Lord, his commitment to sharing the Gospel, and his desire to care for others through every season of life.

In addition to his pastoral ministry, Ronald served for more than 25 years as an associate chaplain at Lexington Medical Center. In this role, he continued his lifelong calling to offer spiritual guidance, comfort, and compassion to patients and families during some of their most difficult moments.

Outside of his ministry, Ronald was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in hunting and fishing. He especially cherished time spent on Lake Murray and fishing with friends at Santee. He also enjoyed working out with his friends several times a week at the Tri-City Leisure Center, where fellowship and friendship were just as important as the exercise itself. These simple pleasures, shared with those he loved, brought him great happiness throughout his life.

Perhaps Ronald's greatest earthly blessing was his family. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara (McCurry) Pelfrey. Their enduring love and lifelong partnership were a testament to commitment, devotion, and the beauty of building a life together.

He is also survived by his daughter, Tania (Mark) Smith, and his son, Todd (Shrenda) Pelfrey, who carry forward his legacy of love, faith, and family.

Ronald was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Meredith (Jacob) Stone, Madison-Ann Pelfrey, Anna-Paige (Travis) Pelfrey, Mary Kathryn (Miles) Fowler, Austin Smith, and Colby Smith. He was also a beloved great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren, Luke, Blake, and Stella Stone, who brought him immeasurable joy.

His life was a testament to the power of faith, the importance of family, the value of friendship, and the lasting impact of a life devoted to serving others. Ronald leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the churches he served, the patients he comforted, and the communities he called home. His influence will live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the generations who will continue to carry his name and his faith forward.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Lexington Baptist Church, located at 308 East Main Street, Lexington, South Carolina. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Monte Vista Memorial Park in Johnson City, Tennessee.

Memorials may be sent to the Pastoral Care at Lexington Medical Center or the Senior Adult Ministry at Lexington Baptist Church.

Special thanks to the staff at Warrior's Walk for their superb care for our veteran.

Family and friends that would like to sign the online guestbook may do so here: https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/lexington-south-carolina/ronald-pelfrey/october-2026

10/19/2026

🎄🎁 Help Us Make Christmas Brighter for Children in Our Community! 🎁🎄
Thompson Funeral Home is proud to serve as a Toys for Tots donation drop-off location, supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program!
This holiday season, we invite our friends, neighbors, and community members to join us in bringing joy and hope to children who might otherwise go without a gift on Christmas morning.
🎁 How You Can Help:
Simply drop off a new, unwrapped toy at Thompson Funeral Home.
❤️ A Special Need: While toys for children of all ages are appreciated, our local Toys for Tots campaign has identified a particular need for gifts for children ages 9–12, especially girls.
📅 Collection Period: Now through the first week of December.
📍 Drop-Off Location: Thompson Funeral Home - 4720 Augusta Road Lexington SC 2907
Every donation, large or small, can make a meaningful difference in a child's Christmas.
At Thompson Funeral Home, serving our community goes beyond the families we care for each day. We're honored to support this wonderful tradition and invite you to help us spread a little extra Christmas joy!
🎅 Together, we can make Christmas brighter — one child at a time!

10/16/2026

Richard Thomas Thrift III of Eastover, SC, born 5 September 1942, passed away 12 October 2026.
He was predeceased by his parents, Richard T. Thrift, Jr. and Merle Lee Thrift and his brother, Terry Thrift. Richard is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sandra; daughters, Stacey Barrow and Holly Thrift (Chris); granddaughters, Brianna and Amaya Barrow, Samantha, Ceva and Zoey Waldrep; grandson, Brian Barrow; and great grandson, Amari Barrow; along with nieces and nephews.
Richard retired from the US Army August 1983 and from the Defense Finance and Accounting Office, Ft Jackson, SC March 2013 as a civilian employee. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, a distinguished member of the Finance Corp. and a proud Eagle Scout. Richard was a member of RAFINO and he and Sandra attended many reunions. He also enjoyed taking vacations with his family, visiting many National Parks. He was a member of Lykesland First Baptist Church, Hopkins, SC.
A visitation will be held Monday, Oct 19, 2026 at 11AM at Thompson Funeral Home Chapel at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Rd, Columbia, SC, with the funeral service immediately after at 12PM with burial in Serenity Gardens.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of your choosing.

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/columbia-south-carolina/richard-thrift-iii/october-2026

10/15/2026

Sandy Lee Gouldsmith, 63, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026.

Born on May 6, 1963, she was the daughter of the late Ralph Austin Gouldsmith and Bertha Velita Light. Sandy was the youngest of seven children, growing up with one brother and five sisters. She shared a special bond with her siblings and loved them deeply, along with her many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Family held a special place in Sandy’s heart, and she treasured the relationships and memories they shared.

Sandy was a hardworking, independent, and strong-willed woman who lived life on her own terms. Known for her determination and stubborn spirit, she never shied away from hard work or a challenge. Beneath her tough exterior was a loving heart, and she will be remembered for her strength, resilience, and the love she had for her family.

Sandy enjoyed spending time outdoors, gardening, and staying active. She was always happiest when she had something to keep her busy and rarely sat still for long. One of her greatest passions was taking photographs and collecting pictures of family and friends. Over the years, she preserved countless memories through her photographs, leaving behind treasured keepsakes for those she loved.

Sandy is survived by her three children, Christopher Charles Cawrse (Kayla), Anastasia Bird (Ernie), and Vinson Downer (Samantha); thirteen grandchildren, Stormy Skipper, Carolina Skipper (Logan Lee), Raleigh Skipper, Dalton Bird (Allison Bird), Kayce Bird, Leland Cawrse, Charli Cawrse, Saylor Cawrse, Seth Hansen, Jaxson Downer, Nora Downer, Claire Downer, and Slade Downer; and two great-grandchildren, Emery Lee and Beckett Bird.

She is also survived by her siblings, Peggy Tindal, Donald Gouldsmith, Connie Gouldsmith-Wesseler, Wanda Gouldsmith, and Adri Gouldsmith, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will cherish her memory.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph Austin Gouldsmith and Bertha Velita Light, and her beloved sister, Kathy Wethington.

Sandy will be remembered for her strong work ethic, independent nature, and unwavering determination. Her love of family, appreciation for life’s simple pleasures, and the many memories she captured throughout her life will remain a lasting part of her legacy.

Her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her will deeply miss her.

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/lexington-south-carolina/sandy-lee-gouldsmith/october-2026

10/15/2026

Jeanne B. Allen was born on April 22, 1928 in Latta, SC. Mrs. Jeanne graduated Winthrop University in 1947 with a Certificate in Commerce. She retired from SC Industrial Commission as Director of Claims in 1985. She married the love of her life, the Late Mr. Paul E. Allen, in 1955.

Mrs. Jeanne was a longtime fervent and faithful member of First Baptist Church of Columbia where she attended for many years.

As the last surviving member of her family, she is survived by nephews, Matt Biggs, Jeff Salka, Mike Allen, and David Allen.

https://www.altogetherfuneral.com/obituaries/thompson-funeral-homes/columbia-south-carolina/jeanne-allen/october-2026