Ronnie Watson Thompson

Ronnie Watson Thompson, 81, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, quiet strength, and unwavering kindness.

Born on January 14, 1945, in Hawkinsville, Georgia, Ronnie was the beloved son of the late Richard Thompson and Lucille Teagle. He was raised in Dodge County, where he attended Dodge County High School. Driven by a desire to serve his country, Ronnie enlisted in the United States Army during his junior year of high school. He proudly served for three years, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4 E-4), an experience that instilled in him the discipline and work ethic that would define the rest of his life.

Following his military service, Ronnie began his career with the United States Postal Service in Macon, where he worked faithfully for nine years. He later accepted a position in Civil Service at Robins Air Force Base, where he built a distinguished career spanning many years. Ronnie worked in the F-15 hangar as a hydraulic mechanic and performed aircraft maintenance, earning a reputation as an exceptionally skilled technician. His knowledge, dependability, and willingness to help made him someone coworkers regularly counted on when a difficult job needed to be done. In the final years of his career at Robins, he served as a manager before retiring. Never one to shy away from hard work, Ronnie also spent many years moonlighting with ZANTOP while employed at Robins. Even after retirement, he continued working for several years with Ziegler in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

When he wasn't working, Ronnie found his greatest enjoyment outdoors. He loved spending time in his yard, keeping it looking its best, and enjoyed many days hunting and fishing. He and his beloved wife shared a passion for camping, making countless treasured memories together on their adventures. Ronnie simply wasn't one to sit still—he always had to be doing something. Whether he was tackling a project, helping a friend, or finding another reason to stay busy, he approached everything with determination and purpose. He also had a well-known love for a good cup of coffee, which often accompanied the start of his day.

Those who knew Ronnie will remember him most for his hardworking spirit, caring nature, and the selfless way he looked after others. He possessed a heart that was always willing to help someone in need. He never hesitated to lend a hand, share his knowledge, or offer encouragement to those around him. His faithful dog, Abby, was his constant companion and brought him immeasurable joy, rarely leaving his side.

In addition to his parents, Ronnie was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Conley, and brother, Danny Thompson.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Judy Thompson; children, Richard Thompson (Connie), Lisa Nutt (Jeff), Steven VanVoorhis, Cory VanVoorhis (Becky), and Shayna VanVoorhis; eight grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; sisters, Phyllis Brown (George) and Mary Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, in Magnolia Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be given in memory of Ronnie to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting https://www.stjude.org/donate .

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.