On March 4, 2026, God sent His angels to bring His son, Columbus Thompson, home.

A private Celebration of Columbus's life was held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at Hope Valley Hawkins Funeral Chapel, 1246 Hobbton Hwy., Clinton, NC. Columbus was laid to rest at Sandhill Cemetery, located on Sampson St. in Clinton, NC.

Columbus was preceded in death by his mother, Essie Jane Monroe Thompson, and his father, Columbus Thompson. He attended Clinton High School, where he obtained his high school diploma. He later attended Lumberton Truck Driving School, where he earned his Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Columbus always had a pleasant smile and would do anything to help anyone.

Columbus was known by many as "Lumb." He had one of the biggest hearts a person could have. He enjoyed trucking, spending time working in the yard, and fixing cars.

Those left to cherish his memories include his wife, Sadie E. Thompson of Clinton, North Carolina; his sons, Patrick Thompson, Wayne Thompson, and Christopher Thompson, all of Clinton, North Carolina; and his stepson, James Watkins of California. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Shaniya Williams of Lumberton, North Carolina; Jade Watkins of Virginia; and Avery Watkins of Germany.

Columbus is further survived by his sisters: Diane Thompson of Faison, North Carolina; Teresa Thompson of Warsaw, North Carolina; and Mary Thompson of Clinton, North Carolina. He leaves behind several loving nephews and nieces, including Derrick Thompson, Niketa Thompson, Maurice Thompson, Danny Thompson, Shandel Whitted, and Tammy Whitted of Charlotte, North Carolina, along with two great-nieces and two great-nephews. Special friends include James and Milda Faircloth, Clarence and Pam Marding, and Mr. and Mrs. Sylvester Wilson, Sr., all of Clinton, North Carolina. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Wanda Goodman of Charlotte, North Carolina.