Born on Nov. 11, 1937, in St Paul, Minn., he was the son of Margaret Johnson Thompson and Ross Thompson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Erik Thompson of Lexington.

He is survived by his wife, Beth Braford Thompson, of Lexington; and son, Ross Thompson, and daughterin- law, Betty, of Los Gatos, Calif.

Joe was a graduate of Earlham College in Richmond, Ind., and received his master’s and doctorate degrees in psychology from the University of Wisconsin. He retired from Washington and Lee University after 33 years as a psychology professor.

He was an avid reader and puzzle connoisseur and frequented The Best Seller bookstore in Lexington where he met and married the owner. He spent many happy days in the bookstore helping customers and tending to the cats who called the bookstore their home. He enjoyed smoking his pipe and listening to music. He also dabbled with a variety of musical instruments and once was member of a barbershop singing group.

The family would like to thank the staff at Kendal for their care and kindness to Joe. He was well known for his witty comebacks, which brought a smile to many.

If you wish to make a donation in Joe’s honor, please consider the Staff Appreciation Fund at Kendal at Lexington and Rockbridge Area Hospice.

There will be no services.

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