Andy Gene Thompson

Andy Gene Thompson, 79, of Russellville, died Thursday, August 13, 2026, at his home surrounded by those he loved. Following a private family committal in the Chapel of Light, cremation arrangements were entrusted to the Humphrey Dignity Cremation Center under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service.

Andy was born August 10, 1947, in Marshall, Arkansas, to Ulis Grant and Melinda Aliene (Treat) Thompson, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by three brothers: Eddie, Steve, and Roy Thompson, and a sister, Linda Triplett.

He is survived by his former wife and abiding companion & caregiver, Alline Thompson; two sons, Andy Thompson II (Sheila) and Joshua Thompson (Carissa), both of Russellville; a daughter, Alina Clair (Steve) of Dover; five grandchildren: Josh Thompson II (Mary), Alyssa West (Brent), Kayla Vodraska (Jonathan), Bethany Clair and Ethan Clair; five great grandchildren; and a sister, Shirley Nipper (James “Gene”) of Searcy.

Earning his vocational training at Morrilton Technical College as an electrician and HVAC maintenance, Andy worked in refrigeration maintenance at ConAgra in Russellville for 47 years. Hard work was the defining ethic of his life. Serving his community was also a value he embraced, having served as a past Councilman on the Pottsville City Council. He worshipped with his faith family at Restoration Church and the Pottsville Assembly of God as a deacon.

When he had time to spend in leisure activities, he enjoyed horseback riding and motorcycle riding. Having spent time in his junior years as a lifeguard, swimming was a lifelong joy. Andy may be the only man in the River Valley who built a Ferris wheel in his front yard completely out of wood. It was the talk of the town! He held a knack for taking anything and making it into an object of fun and joy, a legacy his family will cherish and love forever.