William Richard Thompson, devoted husband of 45 years to the late Nellie Chernovetz Thompson, passed away peacefully at CT Hospice in Branford on April 13, 2010. Son of the late John and Jessie Thompson, he was the loving father of William Thompson and his wife Judy of West Hartford and Richard Thompson and his wife Diane of Branford. He was a proud grandfather and treasured his grandchildren Christina Foster and her husband David, Rebecca Stapleton and her husband Michael, Robert Thompson, Ryan Thompson and Michael Thompson. His special great grandchildren are Brayden and Kylie Stapleton. He was very close to his nephew and god child Jack and his wife Lorraine as well as his predeceased brother John. Bill cherished the quality time he spent with his family and was always supportive, optimistic and a pleasure to be around. He never complained and was quick to attend to the needs of others. He displayed strong moral values and was respected by all who knew him. His family and friends defined what was most important in his life. Bill was a US Army Air Corps Veteran and retired from the US Postal Service as a customer service representative. He was an active member in both local and state PTA's as well as a board member of the West Haven Community House. Bill was a faithful parishioner and vestry member of Christ Church in West Haven, currently the Church of the Holy Spirit. He treated everyone as if they were the most important person in his life, always finding the best in what each had to offer. His selfless, caring compassion as well as his gentle guidance will never be forgotten. Funeral service will be on Friday, April 16 at 11 a.m. in the Church of the Holy Spirit, 28 Church St., West Haven, CT 06516. Friends may call at BEECHER & BENNETT-TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME, 410 Campbell Ave., West Haven, Friday morning from 9-10:30 a.m. Interment in Beaverdale Memorial Park. Contributions in his memory may be made to The Church of the Holy Spirit Memorial Fund or to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405.