William Warren “Bill” Thompson  was born January 8, 1961 in Jacksonville, FL, the son of proud parents Jan B. and Patricia S. Thompson. Bill grew up in Jacksonville attending Englewood Christian Church and was an outstanding 1979 Englewood Senior High School graduate, where he excelled in tennis. However, Bill was best known for his scholarly and leadership pursuits. Academically, Bill graduated fourth in his class and was elected to the National Honor Society. Bill was also a strong leader in the Bible club and the president of the Key Club. Yet, one of Bill’s most treasured achievements was earning the rank of Eagle Scout, as well as being elected to serve as the Order of the Arrow chairman for scouts who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives.

Owing to his solid preparatory work, Bill received the nomination of the Honorable William V. Chappell Jr. of Florida’s 4th District and became a member of the United States Military Academy’s Class of 1983. After a spirited and successful plebe year, Bill joined the ranks of the proud C-4 Cowboys. Bill was best known for bringing the slow-flowing Southern traditions of Florida to West Point and yet still managing to remain unchanged despite the hectic pace of our four years.

As a class, there were certain among us who we could always look to for inspiration. There were those who beat Navy on the fields of friendly strife, and, of course, we held them dear. Then there were classmates who quietly showed us a deeper commitment to our venerated principles contained in the Honor Code, the “Alma Mater,” and the Cadet Prayer. Bill was just that classmate. Although quiet in demeanor, Bill’s daily actions shouted his commitment to our class, West Point, the nation, and most importantly to his family and God.

Our classmate Glen DeWillie eloquently captured a snapshot of how Bill comported himself and how he inspired:

What I remember most about Bill was his undying commitment and love of Christ. Bill’s humble walk was not the loud or boisterous witness many get turned off by, but rather a quiet, deeply sincere and firmly convicted walk in faith. His own example led me to a deeper examination of my own faith, and I welcomed his kind, non-judgmental witness about his faith and spiritual beliefs in my own life. We prayed together, we shared scripture together and this led to my re-commitment to Christ through baptism in Lusk Reservoir one cool spring afternoon near Easter of my firstie year. I could not think of a more meaningful Christian interaction in my life than the time I shared with Bill. Speaking with him and Tina both before she left this earth, I could tell they were both stronger than ever in their faith and that they shared the deepest love for each other and Christ with a hope of reuniting with him soon. Beyond that, Bill left me with a treasure that I will always cherish…a copy of his signed book he worked so hard to write and used to help others who want to share and learn scripture—Preaching Isaiah’s Message Today. This book captures his unwavering faith and life experiences well, coaching, teaching, nurturing others…all Bill’s wonderful gifts. I remain a better man, a better Christian because of Bill’s time together with me.

Bruce Stachura was Bill’s roommate the semester that Bill met Tina, and immediately Bill’s bookcase became the “Tina Alter.” Naturally, in the environment of continuous ribbing, Bill caught a good deal of grief for his devotion and the “alter” (putting it mildly). Bill’s good-natured response was always, “Ahhh, you’re just jealous,” and we were.

Benn Stratton, Bill’s cow roommate, remembered how Bill’s consistent smile, great attitude, and unflappable optimism seemed pollyannaish and would sometimes annoy his classmates who were consumed with daily dramas of cadet life. Benn then came to appreciate that those wonderful qualities were a natural result of Bills deep and unshakeable faith. Bill’s counsel and humility touched many of us just like this and, by extension, has left a lasting legacy on our children and our children’s children.

After West Point, Bill excelled in the Army as a demanding but fair commander, always exhorting the most from his soldiers simply by his example. After 22 years of service, Bill retired in 2005 to answer the call of God, graduating from Cincinnati Christian University with a Master of Divinity degree, the Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Theology degree in leadership and education, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in preaching and leadership from Asbury Seminary. Bill also served as an adjunct professor of ministry for Ohio Christian University.

Jim Schless talked to Bill right before his passing. Jim reported that Bill spoke very fondly of the C-4 Cowboys and his time at West Point. Although Bill lost his physical battle on this earth, no doubt Tina met him alongside Jesus as he entered his eternal home. Be Thou at Peace brother Bill.

“Bill has a scholar’s mind and a pastor’s heart. He bridges the world of the Bible to our culture today and he guides those entrusted with preaching God’s word. Bill knows where we live and where we could live with God’s help.”—Pastor Scott Eynon, foreword to Preaching Isaiah’s Message Today, 2020

“He will always be remembered for his gentle character, a warm smile and willingness to help others. A devoted Christian and Cowboy, he leaves West Point with a spirit of service to both his country and God.”  —Howitzer, 1983

—Members of the Class of 1983