With deep love and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Joel Edward Thompson, II, of Trafalgar, Ind., who departed this life on April 3, 2025, at the age of 81. A man of unwavering principles, sharp intellect, and boundless devotion to family, Joel leaves behind a legacy defined by service, integrity, and love.
Joel was born on June 26, 1943, in Colon, Panama, and raised in the vibrant community of Curundu Heights in the Canal Zone. The son of Joel Edward Thompson, Sr. of Blue Mountain, Mississippi, and Myrtle Frederika Kameka Thompson of Seaford Town, Jamaica, Joel’s early life was shaped by discipline and the influence of his father’s work with the Army Corps of Engineers.
His formative years in the Canal Zone shaped the very foundation of who he became. The unique blend of cultures, the sense of order and purpose in the Canal Zone, and the friendships forged there left an indelible mark on his character. So profound was that influence that Joel made it a point to return—this time not alone, but with his own family. He wanted them to walk the same paths, see the same sights, and understand the place and people that molded him. It was important to him that his children understood not just where he came from, but how that place, with all its discipline, diversity, and pride, helped him become the man he was. That journey was more than a trip—it was a passing of legacy, a father’s quiet yet powerful way of teaching through experience.
He graduated from The Citadel in 1965, where his commitment to leadership and structure began to take root. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country, commissioning into the United States Army and deploying to Vietnam, where he served in the specialized field of Psychological Warfare. Through his courage and dedication in service he was awarded numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star, a testament to his valor and character. He retired from military service as a First Lieutenant in 1967.
Joel’s pursuit of excellence continued in civilian life as he earned his MBA from Texas A&M University and built a respected career in Human Resources with leadership roles at Celanese, Porter Paints, Courtaulds Coatings, and Akzo Nobel, ultimately serving as Vice President. Colleagues knew him as a man of integrity, vision, and remarkable consistency.
Outside of his professional life, Joel cherished the peace and joy of weekend life on Lamb Lake in Indiana, which became a central sanctuary for his family. In retirement, he and his beloved wife of 59 years, Jane Stogner Thompson, split their time between Lamb Lake and Seabrook Island in South Carolina, where he delighted in being close to Charleston and Jane’s extended family.
At the core of Joel’s life was his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. He is preceded in death by his beloved son, Joel Edward Thompson, III (1966–2018), and is survived by his wife, Jane Stogner Thompson, daughter, Jennifer Elaine Thompson (Gray), and son-in-law, Joshua Christian Gray. He adored his three grandchildren — Mackenzie Laine Gray, Jacob Christian Gray, and Kendall Grace Gray — and poured his wisdom, patience, and love into each of their lives.
Joel was the rock upon which many stood. He was always ready with sound advice, a listening ear, or a steady hand. He believed in living a life of routine and discipline — values he instilled in those closest to him as a way to stay grounded and prepared for whatever life might bring. These routines, once simply daily habits, became sacred traditions that shaped the lives of his children and grandchildren.
He was many things: a soldier, a scholar, a leader, a husband, a father, and a grandfather. But above all, Joel was a constant — ever present, ever steady, ever loving. His absence leaves a quiet but undeniable void, and his memory will live on in the lives he shaped and the love he gave so freely.
He leaves behind his wife Jane, daughter Jennifer, son-in-law Joshua, grandchildren Mackenzie, Jacob, and Kendall, and many extended family and friends who will continue to honor his memory through the values he passed on and the love he so freely gave.
The family will welcome close friends and family in their home on Lamb Lake on Monday, April 14, 2025 from 4 – 6 pm. A private family service will be held at a later date to celebrate Joel’s life, with inurnment at the Memorial Bell Tower Columbarium on the campus of The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to The Citadel Foundation : Our Mighty Citadel Strategic Plan, in honor of his service and lifelong commitment to helping others.
“Honor. Duty. Respect.”