Merle D. Thompson, Jr., age 58, of Thomasville, Georgia passed away Friday, April 22, 2011 at Archibald Memorial Hospital in Thomasville following a brief illness. Merle was born in Orlando, FL. on July 20, 1952 to the late Merle Thompson Sr. and Eileen Beckon Thompson.
Before relocating to Thomasville some twenty three years ago Merle lived in Valdosta, GA. He attended Valdosta State and later received several college degrees in drafting from Southwest Georgia Tech and Moultrie Tech. He worked by day as a warehouse manager but Merle was best known for his career as a musician. He had a love for music and could be found sitting behind a set of drums every chance he got. His professional career as a drummer included, The Joel Mathis Band, The Brenda Pepper Band, The Country Playboys, The Henderson Brothers Band and The Dixie Road Band.

Merle is survived by his daughter, B.J. Creech and her husband Anson J. Creech, of Jennings, FL.; one sister, Merleen Thompson, Garland, Texas; and two granddaughters whom he loved, Anslie and Conner Creech. Survivors also include three nieces, a nephew and a host of friends.

Services were held Tuesday, April 26, 2011 in the chapel of Harry T. Reid Funeral Home in Jasper, Florida. Per his wishes Merle was cremated. Interment will follow at a later date in Statenville, GA.