Thomas Thompson Jr. was born on March 14, 1929, to the late Thomas Sr. and Shada Brown-Thompson in Montclair, NJ the eldest of four. He was called home on August 27, 2021, surrounded by family. Tom or Mr. T. as he was affectionally known by family and friends was educated in the Montclair School System. After receiving his high school diploma, Tom enlisted in the United States Navy and served four years as a Gunnery non-commissioned officer or a PBY Aircraft. After active duty, Tom wore many hats to provide for his family, so they could live comfortably. There were many times when he worked two or more jobs simultaneously. At one time he was a cab driver, salesman at a pawnshop and an auto serviceman. The owner of the auto shop admired and trusted Tom so much, he made executor to his million-dollar estate. He was an Essex County Constable after the Newark riots in 1967. Tom was an entrepreneur. He opened his own grocery store, selling his products at lower prices, therefore outselling his competitors. Tom was employed by Essex County Psychiatric and Rehabilitation Center (Overbrook) in Cedar Grove, NJ retiring after forty years of service. It was here that Tom met his beautiful wife Dorothy and became a property owner. After retiring Tom and Dot moved to Rahway, NJ in 1992. He joined Second Baptist Church in 1997 under the leadership of Rev. Dr. James W. Ealey. He was a member of the Men's fellowship ministry. Tom was a long-time honorary member of the FOP (Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary), member of the NAACP and the American Legion Post #12. Mr. T loved to help and cared for people by and sharing encouraging words. A few of his favorite quotes are " What good is a man living, if he can't help someone along the way?" "What I do in secret, the Lord will bless me openly." and "Let the work I do speak for me." Tom lived by these words. In addition to his parents Tom is predeceased by 2 sister and brother, daughter Shelly, son Linwood, stepdaughter Patricia. Tom leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 53 years, Dorothy, sons Thomas III, Walter, Torrence Thompson and Todd Stokes, Goddaughter Vernita Raymond. Brother Freddie Thompson, 12 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.
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