Mr. John Eldon Thompson, age 73, of Dalton, Georgia, departed this life Saturday,
August 9, 2025, at his home surrounded by the family he cherished deeply.
Eldon was born January 13, 1952, in Ringgold, Georgia, a son and the last surviving
child of Ollie Chester and Mary Lucille Shepherd Thompson. He was also preceded in
death by his sister, Margie and Buddy Hobbs, and brothers, Wayne Thompson and Bud
Thompson.
A 1970 graduate of Dan McCarty High School in Fort Pierce, Florida, Eldon built his life
and livelihood on hard work, determination, and integrity. For over thirty-six years, he
owned and operated Thompson's Drywall and Plaster Company. His craft demanded
skill, strength, and perseverance, and Eldon approached each day with a work ethic that
inspired everyone around him. He took pride in a job well done, often saying that the
physical labor of drywall work was not just an occupation, but a testament to grit and
dedication.
Beyond his work, Eldon poured himself into his family and community. He was a
devoted husband to his beloved wife, Marcia Beck Thompson, and they would have
celebrated their fifty-third wedding anniversary on December 9, 2025. He was a loving
father to his children, Tasha (Rance) Martin of Ft. Payne, AL, Tyler (Angie) Thompson
of Villanow, GA, and Todd Thompson (Shannon) of Dalton, GA. His pride and joy were
his grandchildren—Austin Townsend (Jada), Morgan Hibbs (Levi), Easton Thompson,
Tayler Thompson, Emma Thompson, and Axell Thompson—and his great-grandson,
Miles Townsend. Eldon's love for his family was unwavering, and his happiest moments
were those spent in their company.
Eldon also had a heart for the youth in his community. He coached baseball at Valley
Point Schools for many years, mentoring young athletes not only in the sport but in life.
A loyal Atlanta Braves fan, he never missed a chance to cheer them on.
He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Barbara Thompson of Dalton, GA; aunt, Ivonene
Thompson of Rocky Face, GA; and several nieces, nephews, and many cousins.
In keeping with Eldon's wishes, no services will be held. The family requests that in lieu
of flowers, donations be made to the GoFundMe account Honoring Eldon for Family and
Youth or to the Whitfield County Schools Baseball Program.
Arrangements are by Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, GA 30721.
706-226-4002 .
www.selectedindependentfuneralhomes.org