Larry Kent Thompson passed away on October 30, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, music, and love. He was a man whose life was defined by hard work, service, family and an unmistakable sense of humor and a deep reliance on Jesus Christ.

Kent was born on February 5th, 1941, to Noah Hampton and Thelma Gladie Thompson of O’Donnell, Texas. A proud son of West Texas, he graduated from O’Donnell High School in 1959, where he made his mark as a standout football player.

Following high school, Kent attended Abilene Christian University. His college journey took an unexpected turn as he served during the Vietnam War. Kent proudly served in the United States Army as a frontline medic, caring for wounded soldiers. His service earned him the Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Metal, Sharpshooter Medal, and Expert Rifleman recognition.  After returning home, Kent resumed his education and graduated from ACU with a Business Degree with Honors.

Kent eventually made his home in Lubbock, Texas.  Over the years, he worked for Conoco Oil, farmed cotton, and served as a rural route carrier for the USPS. 

On June 12 th, 1972, Kent married the love of his life, Billie Arlene Barkley. Together, they shared 52 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, and companionship. Billie was his partner through life’s adventures, and their love story remained one of the most important chapters of his life.

Kent enjoyed life! He loved to laugh, sing, and play guitar and was seldom bested at 42 dominoes. Kent was a man’s man and thrived in the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and working with his hands.

Kent loved his family deeply and believed charity begins at home. 

1 Timothy 5:8 “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

Kent was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Billie Thompson; daughter, Carlene Shaw; brothers, Shorty Thompson and Wally Thompson; sisters, Jane Blackwell and Delores Thompson; and grandson Bryan Bashrum.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Donna (Scott), Bashrum; grandchildren, David (Tracy) Shaw, Summer (Dana) Palmer, Brelyn Bashrum, and Brett Bashrum; and great-granddaughters, Ava and Audri Shaw.