Ted Thompson

Ted A. Thompson, of Burdine, Kentucky, passed away on the 7th day of November, 2017 at Pikeville Medical Center at the age of 77 surrounded by his family. He was born on October 9, 1940 to his parents, the late Paul D. and Lexi Mullins Thompson. Ted was devoted to his family. He and the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann Tackett, married on August 24, 1959 and were proud parents of four daughters. Soon after they were wed, Ted and Libby made their home in Grand Rapids, Michigan where Teddy worked at Interstate Brands Bakery, Inc. for fourteen years. They then moved back "home" to Kentucky, where Teddy worked for Beth-Elkhorn Mining Company as a coal processing plant operator at both the Dunham and Pike Mine #26 tipples for a number of years. Following the dissolution of Beth-Elkhorn, he worked for other mining companies until going to work at the Pike County Kellogg's plant as maintenance supervisor when it went into operation in 1985. He retired from there in 2003. Teddy worked long hours to provide for his family of whom he was so proud, never complaining and always providing support and encouragement in all that they endeavored to do. He was an avid fisherman, guitar player, and bluegrass music lover, and was well known for his love of road trips with those he cherished. The love of basketball was instilled in him at a young age, and he was long remembered at Dorton High School for his play on the court. The fondness for the red and white of his school days was carried throughout his life as he always appreciated a good game of basketball, live or on t.v. and was a Louisville Cardinal fan. But most of all, he loved gathering with family and friends, whether that be for a game of checkers at his friend, Dave Hall's service station, a family reunion with his Thompson or Mullins kin, or the many holidays and "get togethers" at his home for his daughters and their families. He leaves a lifetime of stories, loving pranks and plenty of laughter for family and friends to share. Of all that Teddy did throughout his life, family was number one priority. He never left doubt in those he loved that he was there for them. This loyalty was extended not only to his wife and daughters, but to each son-in-law, grandchild and great grandchild. As they were welcomed into the family, each was granted his unconditional love that knew no bounds. In addition to his wife, Libby, Teddy is survived by four daughters, Tin C. Whitaker (Mike) of Cromona, Kentucky ; Lisa A. Slone (Rodney) of Whitesburg, Kentucky; Teresa L. Burke(Phillip) of Bentonville, Arkansas; and Sarah A. Marth (Rich) of South Portsmouth, Kentucky. Seven grandchildren including: Paul M. Whitaker (Betty) of Cromona, Ky; Nick Whitaker (Sabrina) of Jackhorn, Kentucky; Brandon Slone of Whitesburg, Kentucky; Bradley Burke and Bailey Burke of Bentonville, Arkansas; and Abbie Johnson and Luke Johnson of South Portsmouth, Kentucky; as well as four great grandchildren: Tye, Annie, Samuel, and Emily. A brother, Paul Roger Thompson (Katherine) of Jenkins, Kentucky, and two sisters: Linda Powers (Duford) of Burdine, Kentucky, and Reda Quillen (Darrell) of Jenkins, Kentucky also survive. Extended family and friends will also mourn his passing. Visitation will be Thursday at 6p.m. at the Lucas & Son Funeral Home. Church services will be Thursday at 7p.m. The funeral will be Friday Nov. 10, 2017 at 1p.m. at the Lucas & Son Funeral Home with Doug Kelly officiating. Burial will follow in the Green Acres Cemetery at Whitesburg, Ky.