Mr. Robert Edward Thompson (affectionately known as "School," "Hub,", "Hammer," "Jump," "Patton Ct.," "Thomas," and "Grandad") was born March 26, 1935, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to the late Eddie and Ruth Thompson. He was one of eight children, all of whom preceded him in death.

After receiving his education in the East St. Louis Public School System, Robert relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where he worked as a supervisor for the Bell & Howell Company. He later moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where he pursued an apprenticeship as a Thoroughbred Horse Trainer under Mr. Norman Haymaker. Upon completion of his training, Robert relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where he continued his career as a thoroughbred horse trainer for Ulysses and James Meredith. Mr. James Meredith is recognized as the first African American to attend the University of Mississippi.

Robert later retired from Roadway Trucking after many years of dedicated service. Following retirement, he worked for Trust Management, a real estate company, and served in security at Fellowship Chapel and Silver Garden Events Center. Robert accepted Christ at an early age and remained a faithful servant throughout his life. He was an active member of Calvery Tabernacle of Detroit and was ordained as Deacon on September 28, 2014. He remained active until his passing.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Ruth Thompson; his siblings, Rosemary Haynes, Melvin Thompson, Mildred Harris, Iva Green, Velma Porter, Bernell Thompson, and Betty Stanley, and his two wives.

He leaves to cherish his memory his four beloved children, Robert Fields, Judge Richard Fields, Juan Thompson, and Kimberly (Marcus) Thompson.

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Kevin Thompson, Talisha Moss, Porche Moss, K'Mora Thompson, Asia Thompson, Diamond Thompson, Kyle Clark, Juan Clark, Jaron Thompson, Stephanie Thompson, Darrick Jefferson, Zina (Jim) Crosson, Shermona Gantt, Tamira Jones, and Portia Mitchell; great grandchildren, Dorian Jackson and Demetrea Jackson; great-great-grandchild, Zi'Aire Watkins. Robert also leaves special friends, Carl Wright, Cornelius McCottrell, Maurice Scott, LaWanda Williams, and Teraesa Poe; a host of nieces and nephews, including Jewell Reynolds and Michael Green, with whom he shared a very special relationship and many dear friends who will cherish his memory.

Robert Edward Thompson will be laid to rest in his hometown of East St. Louis, Illinois.