W. A. "Bill" Thompson, lifetime resident of Bay City, Texas went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 30, 2007 at the age of 82. He was born on August 24, 1924, at the family home of Ada and Frank Thompson. Bill was active in the Boy Scouts of America and attended the first Boy Scout Jamboree in 1938. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout when he was 12 years old. Bill graduated from Bay City High School with the class of 1941; graduated from the University of Texas in 1944 where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and lettered in track. Bill attended Midshipman's School at Columbia University where he received his commission as an ensign in the US Navy, serving on two different destroyers during World War II. Bill was the Dealer and President of Bay City Auto and Sales (one of the oldest Ford/Lincoln Mercury Dealerships in the state of Texas) for over 50 years.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years Anna Sue Chapman Thompson; son Lindsey Arthur Thompson; daughter Beverly Thompson Bradley and her husband Doug Bradley; sister Maurine Voyles and four grandchildren, Emily Thompson, Chapman Thompson, Will Bradley, and Anna Bradley.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Friday, February 2, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church in Bay City with Rev. Chris Harrison officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Pallbearers include Jerry Voyles, Tony Wells, E. M. Huitt, Raymond Balusek, Bill Wiginton, Keith Farrar and Bert Huebner. Honorary pallbearers include Bill Penny, Dr. Russel Matthes, Marvin Kristinik, John Runnells, Sr., Austin Furse, Sr., Jack Huebner, Pat Stayton, and Joe Koliba. If desired, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church building fund. Online Condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.