A Memorial Service of Thanksgiving for the life of George Oliver Thompson was held in New York on September 27, 2008 at St. Luke's Episcopal (Anglican) Church in the Bronx.
The Right Reverend E. Don Taylor, Vicar Bishop for New York City presided at the service. He was assisted by fellow fortis the Rev. Canon Calvin C. McIntyre, Rector,the Church of the Good Shepherd, Bronx.
Some eighty three past students, the majority of whom attended the College during the 1980s, braved the increment weather to witness this historic homecoming.
Participants included Atlanta’s President, Glen Laman, Dr. Ronald McLean, Leroy Dias, Leonard “Chicken” Mason, Ronald and Leroy both played for the Coach while representing Kingston College and Chicken, while representing Jamaica, Albert Stewart, who sat next to the Coach while at school, Mark Milward, his nephew, both gave personal tributes.
Coach Thompson was eulogized as a responsible fun-loving student, who grew into a humble, generous man, who cared about his family, students and players, not only on the on the field of play or exclusively at Kingston College. He gave of his time and resource selflessly, without expecting or receiving much in return.
Bishop Taylor spoke glowingly of his Senior Prefect, who earned the respect of his peers while at school, by his quiet and consistent example. He recalled George’s making sure all the boys under his charge ate lunch, even if he had to put up the funds. This was but a prelude to his later years when George Thompson was in charge of the school’s canteen, guaranteeing that his football team was fed, while often having to use his own resource to keep the canteen afloat. Bishop urged the congregation to make a contribution to the school’s sport department, funds that he intended to handover directly to the Sports-master.
After much prodding by Noel Spencer, which continued through the repast, $1,000 was raised.
Several hours after the service old boys and their families were still in the Church Hall securing the final remains of some delectable food and drink while reliving past football or track and field exploits orchestrated by George Oliver Thompson.
