James Ashley "J.A." Thompson, age 85, died Wednesday evening, June 10, 2020 at his home surrounded by his wife of 63 years, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and family friend Candy. Born February 15, 1935 in Johnston County he was a son of the late Albert Preston and Bessie Parrish Thompson. He was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Preston Thompson; and sister, Helen Thompson Edgerton. Papa J.A. legacy was his love for Jesus, his family, and anyone else that crossed his path. Papa J.A. enjoyed flashlights, gardening, and coffee.

A Celebration of Life will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2020 in Church of Faith in Selma with Rev. Johnny Dictore officiating. The family will receive friends at all other times at the Thompson family home.

Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Sylvia Thompson; sons, James E. Thompson and wife Kelly of Pine Bluff, AK, Roger L. Thompson and wife Cheryl of Smithfield, and Jeffery N. Thompson and wife Tanya of Smithfield; grandchildren, Sally Thompson, Jamie Narron and husband Steve, Neal Thompson and wife Jessica, Ashley Beasley and husband Joe, Wesley Thompson and wife Amanda, Jennifer Throneberry and husband Jason, Theresa Tidwell and husband Jason, and Robert Ratola; and fifteen great grandchildren.

Flowers are appreciated or memorial contributions may be sent to Church of Faith, 910 W. Railroad St., Selma, NC 27576.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at parrishfh.com.