William Edward “Sonny” Thompson was born September 20, 1946. He was a volunteer firefighter for 52 years. In those 52 years, he was a member of Burgin Fire Department, Mercer Central Fire Department, and had a huge role in establishing Shakertown Fire Department, where he was assistant chief.
Sonny received numerous awards over the years of his firefighting efforts. He was extremely proud to serve his community. His knowledge of fire and rescue helped train many young firefighters in his community. He was admired and highly respected by his fellow firefighters. His daughter and granddaughter followed in his footsteps and became firefighters as well.
Sonny’s hobbies include traveling, singing, and riding his 2003 Harley Road King 100th Anniversary Firefighter Edition. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a jack of all trades, completely restoring a ‘68 Chevy truck along with a ‘65 Barth travel trailer. After he retired from his maintenance job, Sonny and his wife, Sherry, purchased a small cottage on Lake Herrington. Together, they renovated it into their favorite place to spend time with family and friends. Sonny also built a boat dock, where he spent many days trying to catch the biggest fish in the lake.
Sonny was a very devoted Christian and a member of Shakertown Baptist Church. He was not ashamed to tell anyone about his love for Jesus Christ. Everyone knew Sonny everywhere he went. He never met a stranger and would hold a conversation with anyone. He was known for always having candy in his pockets to share.
Sonny’s family was his greatest treasure. He adored spending time with them at cookouts, bonfires, and family get-togethers. He adored watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow up. It was always important to him to be remembered by the little ones in the family.
Sonny departed this earth as a follower of Christ and a servant to his community. Not a day goes by that he isn’t missed by family and friends. He would have been so honored to receive this kind of recognition. This has brought great comfort to everyone who loves him dearly.
My Grandad was a great man that will never be forgotten. He inspired me to join the fire dept in his and my mother’s footsteps. I will miss him forever and always keep trying to make him proud!
– Kennedy WoodardSonny never failed to drop whatever he was doing to help you out. As teens on a farm at night my sister and I got a little scared. He came right over and took us back to his house until our parents got home. Never complained a bit about it. It was just his nature.
– Christy TempletonSonny taught me so many things about the fire service and was also a great neighbor and friend!!! We have missed him since the day he went to be with our Lord but we know that he is at peace and watching over all of us.
– Melinda Mullins