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J. Leon Thompson, age 91, died at home of a heart attack on Tuesday, July 1, 2003. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ginger Thompson, and two daughters, Beverly Cramer, wife, of Ray Cramer, of Albuquerque, and Sandra Cooper, widow of the late Patrick Cooper, of College Station, TX. He is also survived by five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. After graduating from the University of New Mexico in 1936, Leon joined Savage and Sganzini Real Estate and Insurance Company, which later merged with Marsh and McLennon. After 40 years of service he retired as Vice-President and Manager of the New Mexico Corporation of Marsh and McLennon. Leon was extremely active in the community. Among his activities included: 16 years service on the Board of Education of the Albuquerque Public Schools during Albuquerque s years of rapid growth. Instrumental leadership in the establishment of the Albuquerque Technical-Vocational Institute, and visionary management of its future as the Vice President of the Governing Board. He served on numerous community boards as: President of the Albuquerque Kiwanis Club, Charter Member, Albuquerque Junior Chamber of Commerce and Optimist Club, Council Member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Disaster Chairman for the American Red Cross, Alumni Council Member of the University of Albuquerque, Member of the American Field Service Student Exchange Board, Board Member of the Girl Scouts of America of Albuquerque and Board Member of the Mid-Rio Grande Health Planning Council. He also participated in many fund drives for the United Way and the University of New Mexico Lobo Club. His Masonic affiliations were a significant part of his life. He held offices as: Past Master of Temple Lodge #6, Past Potentate of Ballut Abyad Temple Shrine, director of Jesters Court #24 and President of Albuquerque Scottish Rite Club. In 1981 he was awarded the Honorary Thirty-third Degree of Masonry. He was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church where he was an Elder and a member of the Foundation Board. Some of his lifelong enjoyments included fishing, golfing, and many visits to Hawaii. He also enjoyed spectator sports and was responsible for bringing to Albuquerque the National Junior College Football Classic. Leon lead an extremely fulfilling and honorable life, and above all other passions and interests was his dedication to raising a loving and caring family. He was without question a man completely devoted to his wife and children, whom he provided love and support unconditionally. He was a dedicated grandfather and great-grandfather, and his humor and optimism will be missed by all who knew him. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, 11:00 a.m., at First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust NE. Private interment has taken place. Friends may visit French Mortuary, University Blvd. NE, Friday, 12:00 noon to 4:30 p.m. French Mortuary 1111 University Blvd. NE 843-6333
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