Jerry Jerome Thompson, affectionately known as “JT”, beloved husband, father, grandfather, faithful servant of God, and dedicated retired Cincinnati firefighter, peacefully answered his final alarm on Friday, July 3rd, 2026, at the age of 74. Born to the late Willie Mae and Nathan Thompson on July 10th, 1951, in Montgomery, Alabama. As the youngest of three children, he was raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, where his infectious smile and unmistakable sense of humor made a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Jerry’s life was defined by service. After graduating from Hughes High School in 1969, he answered the call to public service by joining the Cincinnati Fire Department on April 1, 1975. For more than thirty-three years, he courageously served the citizens of Cincinnati with honor, professionalism, and unwavering dedication before retiring on March 8, 2008. His career was marked by selfless service, strong leadership, and an unbreakable commitment to his fellow firefighters.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Beverly Galloway Thompson; his three children, Anthony (Christian) Brown, Robin (Ryan) Davis, and Lamar (Velvet) Thompson; sister, Helen Bullock; six stepchildren, Edward Thompson, Brittany Thompson, Robbie Burns, Kimberley (LeRoy) Burton, Ashley (Ryland) Reed, and Amber Fields. Jerry was also blessed to have a host of grandchildren, Chardae and Tonie Brown, Tori Brown-Cummins, Dominique and Ryan (Jr.) Davis, Jelani, Jurnee, Nathan, Zayna, Zionn, Nakira, Mischa, Marlyn, Milohe, Julian, and Zaydn Thompson, and was the bonus grandparent and great-grandparent to many more.

Jerry had a deep passion for sports. On any given day, especially Sunday afternoons, you could find him on the couch watching a baseball, basketball, or football game. He found great joy in cheering for the Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, Cincinnati Bengals, and Dallas Cowboys. In addition to his competitive, playful nature, Jerry also had a soft spot for charities. His generous spirit was reflected in his unwavering support for charities such as the ASPCA, St. Jude’s, Freestore Foodbank, Shriners, and the Cincinnati Gospel Mission.

Jerry's greatest source of strength was his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. He was a faithful member of New Unity Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Mark A. Toney, where he served as President of the Usher Board and as a dedicated Trustee. His favorite scripture, John 14:1–4 (KJV), brought him comfort throughout his life:

"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me." — John 14:1

Although his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, love, service, and sacrifice will continue to inspire generations. He will be deeply missed by all who have had the pleasure of knowing him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Mae and Nathan Thompson Jr.; son, Brian Hare; sister, Minnie and her husband, David Ingram; brother-in-law, Robert Bullock; and nephews, Blaine Philpot, Robert (Jr.) and Kevin Bullock.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be laid to rest at Vine Street Hill Cemetery, 3701 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45220.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Thompson family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Thompson family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.