Walter Leslie Thompson, Jr.

Walter Leslie Thompson Jr., 73, of Appomattox, VA, took his final run to heaven on December 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born and raised in Virginia, Walter began his lifelong passion at an early age—climbing into a truck at just 15 years old and never looking back. Driving was more than a career to him; it was a calling and a joy; it was his life.
Walter was known for his warm spirit and his gift for making people laugh. He truly never met a stranger, and those who crossed his path were met with humor, and a laugh like no other. Above all, he loved his family deeply and took immense pride in being “Papa.” He was also affectionately known as “son” by his family.
He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years Evelyn “Sissy” Thompson, his children, Dean and wife Debbie Thompson, and Dana and husband Keith Layne; his grandchildren, David; Erin and husband Derick; Jacob; Lauren; Caleb; Wyatt; Josh; Gabe; Jayden; and Noah; and his great-granddaughter, Annslee, along with his beloved great grand-dog Nelli Jean. He is also survived by his sisters, Nancy and husband Joe George, Janice and husband Kenny Smith, and his brother, Frankie Thompson; his nephew, Norman Thompson, with whom he shared a special bond; and many nieces and nephews. He also treasured the friendship of his dear friend, Gary Heffington.
Special mention and thanks to his extended family at F.L. Moore Trucking and Eddie Wells Paving. To Papa, the people he worked beside mattered just as much as the work itself.
Walter is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Nellie Thompson and his son-in-law, Robert Eagle.
Visitors will be received at the home of his daughter, Dana and husband, Keith Layne, on December 20, 2025. A small private family service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, a cause close to their hearts.
Walter leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and miles well-traveled. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him. Keep on trucking the streets of Heaven Papa, your shift here is done.