Deepest & Sincerest Condolences to all the family. Bear worked with my daddy at the foundry. When I started at NMA in 2005 and we found out who each other was, it was like finding lost family. We ate a lot good meals at work thanks to Papa Bear! He was very much loved by all of us and will be very much missed!
Jerry Lee "Bear" Thompson
August 9, 1948 ~ May 8, 2026
Born in:
Columbus, Indiana
Resided in:
Columbus, Indiana
Jerry Lee “Bear” Thompson, 77, lifelong Columbus resident, passed away at home on May 8, 2026. Jerry was born in Columbus on August 9, 1948, to the late James and Mary (Bush) Thompson. He married Mary (Conrad) Thompson on December 29, 1982, and she survives.
After graduating from Columbus High School, Bear went to work at Golden Foundry at the age of 18 and remained there until its closing. Defined by a strong work ethic, he decided quickly that retirement was not for him, and he went back to work at NMA. He continued to work until his health prevented him from doing so, until just recently. An avid golfer, Bear played anywhere and everywhere he could and was a part of the Old Timers league. He also enjoyed spending his Sundays at the casino with his oldest son. Jerry was loved and respected by all, especially the many friends and co-workers whose lives were touched by his steady presence through the years. Above all, he was a devoted family man. He was immensely proud of all his children, grandchildren, and great children.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Ernie Thompson; siblings, Sherry Dobbs, Gary Thompson, and Cherry Jaggers.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 43 years, Mary; children, Dawn (Scott) Combs, Bob (Heather) Wilson, Grover Wilson, Kimberly (Shane) Thompson, Alicia (Chuck) Baker, and Samanthia (Michael) Thompson; siblings, Larry Thompson, Mary Jane Woods, and Terri “Katie” Hall.
Services will not be observed. Cremation will take place at the Bartholomew County Crematory by Jewell – Rittman, Columbus, 980 S. Marr Road. Visit www.JewellRittman.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
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