Kenneth Thompson

Willie Kenneth (Ken) Thompson, age 85 of Forest City died Wednesday, March 31, 2021 at Rutherford Regional Medical Center.  Ken was born April 25, 1935 in Rutherford County and was a son of the late Grover Cleveland Thompson and Lettie Taylor Thompson.  He worked for many years for Cone Textiles in the Shipping Department, and he worked in security at Allied Dye Casting for seventeen years. 

Ken was a member of Second Baptist Church in Rutherfordton and attended R-S Central High School.  In recent years he found fellowship at  First Baptist Church of Forest City.   As an outdoorsman, one of his favorite pastimes was making crow calls, a hobby he was gifted at.  Ken served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Robbie Glen Thompson.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Joan Blanton Thompson of the home, a daughter, Kelley T. Tomblin and husband Keith of Rutherfordton, a son, Bryan Thompson and wife Christy of Caroleen, a brother, Robert Thompson and wife Joyce of Rutherfordton.  There are also eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A service from the graveside will be held at 2 o’clock Saturday, April 3, 2021 at Mountain Creek Baptist Church Cemetery officiated by the Reverend Dr. Diane Nelson. Military honors will be accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.  The family will greet friends following the service at the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 211 West Main Street, Forest City, North Carolina 28043 or Hospice of The Carolina Foothills, Post Office Box 336, Forest City, North Carolina 28043.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.