Richard (Dickey) Curtis Thompson

Richard (Dickey) Curtis Thompson, 76, passed away September 28, 2021 after a full life focused on family and fun. Happiest on a bike or the water, he loved sharing that with anyone that came along. His final sail at Clarks Hill Lake, shared with family, was followed by a stroke and a short stay at Augusta University Medical Center that ended after a heart attack.

Born in St. Petersburg, FL, Mr. Thompson moved to Evans, GA in the 1950s when his dad was employed during construction of Clarks Hill Dam. He is preceded in death by parents Maxine Joiner Thompson and Marcus (Sam) William Thompson II, brother Marcus William Thompson III, and niece Robin Thompson.

Mr. Thompson operated Thompson Plumbing Company for 50 years, a trade he learned from his father. As bicycling became popular in the 1970s, he started and ran Breakaway Cyclery across from his alma mater, Evans High School. He took up bike racing, sometimes training with an infant daughter along for the ride, and quickly advanced to win several Georgia State Championships and made one trip to National Championships. His tenacity and large stature earned him the nickname ‘Bear.’ Known locally for old race stories and recounts of his adventures, Mr. Thompson always paired his tales with an invitation to join him on future endeavors. He was known for his love of spontaneity which led to amazing adventures, cycling to visit family in Tennessee or sailing to see family in Florida.

Surviving are his three children: Lauren Thompson Rider (Steven), Jessica Thompson Christian (Joe), Timothy Lee Thompson; seven grandchildren: Finley and Hagen Rider, Maxine and Beatrix Christian, and Elijah, Madeline, and William Thompson; two brothers, JT Thompson (Donna) and Stephen Thompson (Johna); sister-in-law, Ann Thompson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Friends are invited to join family for a Celebration of Life on October 17, 2021, 3:00 PM, at the Augusta Sailing Club (5462 Sailing Rd. Appling, GA 30802), followed by a potluck reception from 4:00 – 6:00PM. Casual Attire.  

Family will gather on Monday, October 11, 2021 at Noon where Mr. Thompson will be interred in the Pinehurst City Cemetery, Dooly County, Georgia. He will join his namesake and fraternal Uncle, Edwin Curtis Thompson. Pallbearers will be Cole Thompson, Adam Everidge, Matt Thompson, Bucky Thompson, Will Collins, Michael Thompson, Casey Thompson, and Timothy Thompson.

Memorials may be made to the Medical College of Georgia Foundation or Georgia Bikes.

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