Johnny Lee Thompson, a plumber (RET) passed away on Monday, February 28, 2022, at the age of 85. He was born in Raton, NM to Felix Lee and Martha Layton Thompson on January 29, 1937, and moved to Albuquerque in 1965. Johnny is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 62 years, Marie Rodman Thompson; his precious daughter, Johnnie Lynne Thompson; and the apple of his eye grandson, Justin Lee Baca, and his wife Maria Abeyta. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Josephine Young; brother-in-law, John Paul Rodman, Jr, (Gerry); nephews, William Mitchell, Jr.; Douglas and Mark Young (Erin); Michael Rodman; nieces, Tammy Faubion; Billie Jo Gutierrez (Chris); and several great-nieces and nephews; cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Pauline Mitchell; nephew, Terry Lee Mitchell; brothers-in-law: Max and Martin Rodman and Robert Young; In-laws, John, and Josephine Rodman.
While his father was employed at Los Alamos, the family resided in Santa Fe, NM where Johnny started his education. After a brief time in Las Vegas NM, they returned to Raton and he became a student at Columbian Elementary (where according to him the great athletes came from). After displaying his gifted athletics in track, tennis, and football, he graduated from RHS in 1956. He was also an accomplished swimmer. In lieu of allowing Uncle Sam to draft him, he enlisted in the US Marine Corp. After basic training, he served his two-year enlistment in the Philippines and as an MP in Japan. Johnny came home to a different piper and went to work along with his father in the plumbing and heating business. After the business was dissolved, he relocated his family to Albuquerque and worked for several companies before venturing on his own, holding an MM98 contracting license. This resulted in his having a working relationship of 20 plus years with Siemen formerly GTE Lenkurt. He was one person who truly enjoyed his profession of 35 years, a plumber; retiring in 1994.
Johnny was an avid fisherman and hunter and was grateful that he lived in the Land of Enchantment. His green thumb showcased his home. He was a member of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 412 for 67 years; lifetime member of Elks (57 Years); NRA; Master Gardener. Johnny rooted for his Boys, Dallas Cowboys via TV or in person; was a long-time UNM Lobo fan enjoying many years of attending football and basketball (season ticket holder for 40 years.). He had a warm personality living a full and uncompromising life. His smile was BIG. His joys were his family, friendships, hunting, fishing, and gardening. His cooking was limited to the outdoor grill. The family would like to express thanks to all of the medical providers for their personal and professional care. Services will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022, at 10:00 am at FRENCH – Wyoming. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Johnny’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital., PO Box 3704, Memphis, TN 38101, or a charity of your choice. Please visit our online guestbook for Johnny at www.FrenchFunerals.com.
