Obituary of Arthur J. Thompson

Arthur James Thompson transitioned peacefully at home from this life in the early morning of November 21, 2023 after a gradual decline in health. Arthur’s devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his battle and ultimately gave him peace. Arthur was surrounded by his loving family during the last days of his life. Arthur, fondly known as “Boop” to some and “Big Art” to others, was born to the late Nelson Thompson, Sr. and Odessa Thompson on July 23, 1944 in Hemingway, South Carolina. He was the third child born of this union. Arthur was educated through the public school system of Nesmith County, SC. After completing his education, Arthur moved to Bronx, New York. There he worked several years in a healthcare institution. Later, Arthur moved to Newark, New Jersey where he was employed by the Hatfield Wire and Cable Company in addition to the Ford Motor Company. Not wanting to raise his sons in the city of Newark, Arthur moved his family to Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania. While in Sharon Hill, Arthur started a janitorial business from cleaning a kitchen floor for five dollars to growing it into a multi-million dollar business that expanded across seven states employing many family and friends for over three decades. On December 23, 1964, Arthur married the love of his life, Susie Flegler. From this union five sons were born: Allen, Derrick and Eric (twins), Tyrone, and Gregory. Together, they raised their sons with a lot of love, patience, and discipline. Arthur taught them many life lessons but the most important was to put God and family first. Arthur loved his family unconditionally and enjoyed every moment he could spend with them. He especially loved showing off his “grill master” skills to his sons as well as trash talking while watching his favorite sports teams the Philadelphia Eagles and the Philadelphia 76ers. After leaving Sharon Hill, Arthur and Susie moved to Atco, NJ where they resided until his death. Arthur had a gift for business. His business acumen led him to start a used car dealership while still maintaining his janitorial business. Arthur’s love for cars continued until his declining health. While residing in Atco, Greater Mt. Carmel Church in West Berlin, NJ became their church home. Arthur was a God fearing man who was a dedicated servant for God. He was an ordained Deacon, Chairman of the Finance Committee, and served in various capacities on a myriad of church committees. Arthur leaves to mourn his wife of 59 years, Susie, and five sons, Allen (Rose) of Sicklerville, NJ, Derrick (Sharon) of Macon, GA, Eric (Kim) of Richmond, VA, Tyrone (Dawn) of Williamstown, NJ, and Gregory (Kijona) of Sicklerville, NJ. A special nephew who helped care for him during his last days, Harry (Darlene) Flegler. Arthur is also survived by his sister, Cynthia Pressley of Hemmingway, SC and his brother, Richard (Gloria) Thompson of Marion, SC, sister-in-law, Florine Thompson of Atco, NJ, and brother-in-laws, Louis Abraham of Florence, SC and J.B. Flegler of Washington, D.C. along with 19 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Arthur was predeceased by his brothers Charles Thompson, Nelson Thompson, and sister Mary Lee Abraham. Arthur was a kind and loving person adored by everyone he came in contact with. His legacy of love and wisdom will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to have known him. Arthur’s motto: “Lord help me to help somebody.”