Edward O. Thompson

I just saw a video of a principal of an elementary school interacting with the kids in the way Mr. Thompson used to interact with us when I was at Belle View Elementary in the 80s. He was like our celebrity. Every time he walked down the halls or into wherever we were, we all flocked to him for hugs and high fives. One of the fondest memories I have of him was when he came to save me. I was a latchkey kid and both of my parents were at work but I lost my key... again and was locked out. Someone somehow contacted him at the school. It was probably closer to 6 at night. He came and picked me up in his Nissan 300zx. I felt so special and loved that he, our so loved Mr. Thompson, would come get little old me, just one of hundreds of students, take me back to school and waited with me in the office until my family was able to come and get me. I'm not even sure if my parents knew I was locked out because this way before we even had cell phones. Looking back now through a different lens as an adult, I'm so grateful he didn't berate or embarrass my family as they knew they were hard-working and sometimes things just happen. Thank you, Mr. Thompson. Even 40 years later, you were one of the greatest grownups in our lives that had such a positive influence and impact in how to treat one another and to also be reminded that the littlest ones of us matter just as much as the big older ones do.

Edward"Tommy"Thompson is my second cousin.In my heart he's 1st. All of my relatives directly related to Tom should know he's wearing the " Crown Of Life Eternally" that GOD promised when we as GOD'S people cross over to be with The Lord. Although I didn't get the direct opportunity to interact with him personally the sentimental statements different students & parents has spoken here equates how he was an esteemed leader in all aspects of his endeavors. By the memoirs of his very being certainly speak for itself. I'm elated to know so many walks of life had such high esteem for my cousin. To The Families: There's no greater love that a man would lay down his life for a friend. If anyone of you have heard in this life, it doesn't matter how many degrees you have but "Do You Have Any Power?" The Lord has decided Tom Thompson should rest. Out of respect & consideration I say, REST ON. Peace & Goodwill

Mr. Thompson was such a loving, gentle man, and a great Principal. I was a sub for a whole year at Hybla Valley ES and every day I saw him walking the halls interacting with both students and adults and calling them by name. He even hired me when that year was over. I do remember, one day I was walking in the hall thinking about something and I passed him. He stopped me and asked if I was okay and was there something he could. He truly cared about everyone. He will deeply be missed by many including myself. Love you Mr. Thompson and thank you for seeing what I never saw in myself. Jenny (Getter) Moore

He was the most wonderful person to work for. He was very compassionate with his staff and students. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time! Elaine Coburn

A true gentleman and gentle soul whom our family still remembers fondly after many years. He touched young lives with inspiration and kindness. Thank you for your dedication Mr. Thompson. Celie & Michael McGurk

So sorry to hear about the death of my elementary school principal. In the 1980's Belle View was the most diverse elementary school in Fairfax County by dwelling type, which also meant that it had a diversity of incomes. Tommy Tompson was about equity and inclusion, he brought in every program possible to the school and worked with the PTA to make sure that all families could participate in special events, in a way that only he knew who to whom the actual free tickets were given. He knew every student's name and cared about us. My condolences to the family. What a great man!

Mr. Thompson hired me as a first year teacher in 1999. I'll never forget him guiding us to our next interview on i95. We took the wrong exit and he stopped to back up on the highway to make sure we were alright. He keep the essentials a priority as a school leader and modeled sincere kindness. Rest with God! Sincerely, Lisa Pilson, Fairfax VA

My prayers for Mr.Thompsons family. Mr.Thompson was one of the best principals I ever worked for, so giving and kind. It was my pleasure to have worked for him first at Belleview Elem. Then many years later at Hybla Valley Elem. until he retired. He was a very compassionate man. Did great things for Hybla. Mr. Thompson you will be so missed. Rosemary Moore

My heart is breaking to learn of his passing. I was a student of Belle View Elem. I remember Mr Thompson always being a hands on with all the students. He was the sweetest man. I remember wanting to be a patrol and he pulled me in to his office and gave me an old patrol sash. He told me to put it in my book bag and not tell anyone. Lol. Bless that sweet man and may he rest in Jesus's arm. We love you Mr Thompson. Thank you for making my elem days great. You are in my thoughts and prayers. One last hug (((((HUGS)))))) Love Jill Richardson 1980 years

My heart is breaking to learn of his passing. I was a student of Belle View Elem. I remember Mr Thompson always being a hands on with all the students. He was the sweetest man. I remember wanting to be a patrol and he pulled me in to his office and gave me an old patrol sash. He told me to put it in my book bag and not tell anyone. Lol. Bless that sweet man and may he rest in Jesus's arm. We love you Mr Thompson. Thank you for making my elem days great. You are in my thoughts and prayers. One last hug (((((HUGS))))))

I transferred to Hybla Valley because I had heard that Mr. Thompson was the principal. I had met him when my daughters attended Belle View ES. His concern was always on how he could help the student. After he retired, I ran into him at the mall and he told me that he had hired me with one student in mind. That student added many years to my life. There is an old spiritual that goes, "May The Work I Done Speak For Me." His work for the youngest amongst us surely speaks for him. His fairness and kindness will always be remembered. May God wrap His loving arms around the family during your grieving period. Sending my condolences. Mary Daniels

Mr. Thompson was my principal from 1980-1985. I never forgot him. He was one of the fondest memories I had while attending Belle View. Caring and smiling. Heaven gained another angel. My prayers to his family and all the lives he touched. Rest in Peace Mr. T.

Our girls, Julie and Beth were students at Belle View over a 12 year period. Mark and I had two terms as PTA Presidents several years apart and we worked very closely with him. He was warm, caring and totally devoted to every student in the school. Belle View was one of the most diverse elementary schools in Fairfax County at the time. He worked very hard to make sure that every student had the very best chance to meet his or her full potential!

Mr. Thompson was one of the best principals I had. He was the kindest gentlest leaders I knew.

He was such an amazing man! I am now in my 40's and still remember him as my mentor as a child in elementary school! He made me think and create a better self for me. His memory will always be with me. May you rest in peace my respected dear sir! You were admired by so many that loved you. Angel Kaye Belleview Ementary 78-83

Like so many, Mr. Thompson was my elementary school principal (Belle View 1979-1986). As a man, he was larger than life and he commanded respect just by his presence. With good reason. He was the kind of principal who got to know each and every student at his school and he would go out of his way to guide his students. He was one in a million and I hope he realized just how many lives he touched. RIP

-Chris Anderson

Mr. Thompson was an amazing person. He was the principal at Belle View when I was there in the 80s. It was a wonderful school and that's because of him setting the tone for everyone. I am happy to see that he lived a long, blessed life. The positive effect he had on so many others is something that I will always remember. My deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in eternal peace. Johney Tam

Our dear, deceased daughter, Cara, was a student at Belleview Elementary from Kindergarten, 1985, thru 6th grade. We felt so privileged to have Mr. Thompson as her Principal in her formative years in public school. A caring, innovative,gentleman, he was an excellent role model for so many.I last saw Mr. Thompson at Cara's Homegoing service, October, 2001, where he supported her and us until the end. Your family has our deepest sympathy and prayers.Cynthia and Bill Gordon, West Palm Beach, Florida

I have never forgotten Mr. Thompson over the years. He was my principal in Belle View in 77-79. He was a big inspiration for me those two years as I was quite a little mischief in school , he would sit me down in his office and talk to me and set me straight in the right path. He used to talk to me about his basketball days as I was very athletic and into sports. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. Mr Thompson you will never be forgotten.

Mr. Thompson was the most wonderful and kind hearted principal of my elementary school. He truly made an impact on my life and always made me feel that I was in a safe place. I so grateful to have had Mr. Thompson a part of my life.

Lots of hugs and love to the family.

Marie Cushman Marquis

It's amazing how you don't forget good people that touched our lives. I always thought of him. But literally spoke about him this weekend. I was in Belle View Elementary in 1973-75. And I have great memories of him. He always seem to protect me from everything. May you rest in peace.

Mr. Thompson was my principal in the 80's. I loved him. You could go and talk to him about anything. He was an awesome man. Whenever you saw him in the hallways he always had a smile on his face and always asked how you were. My condolences to the family

I was hired by Mr. Thompson and spent 18 years at Belle View. Everyone loved him. Kind, patient, cheerful and he maintained an open door policy for staff and students. You always knew he had your back. Thank you, Mr. Thompson, for your service to FCPS and the enthusiasm you brought to the school. Kids will always remember him playing hoops on the playground. Deepest respect and sympathy to his family. Louise Potter

My deepest condolences I always wondered what happened to you when you left Hybla Valley thank you for listening and trying to help me figure things out you will truly be missed Doris Walker

With deepest sympathies, and celebrating Mr. Thompson's life's purpose and deep influence on his daughter and my dear friend Tangie, I send love and respect for the entire family. He helped so many and was so deeply loved, and his legacy will live on forever. Jennifer Galloway

How Heaven must be welcoming the kind and wise gentleman who sincerely and enthusiastically welcomed hundreds, probably thousands, of young learners through the doors of their school. Forty years later, we can still picture him outside the entrance of Belle View Elementary waving and giving high/low-5s to his students as they entered. Highest of Fives to you, Mr. Thompson, for opening doors for young minds! Thank you, Thompson Family, for sharing him. We are so grateful to have been in his company. Peace! Barry & Susan Colvert

Hello We are very sorry for the loss of your dear husband, father and grandfather. We have very precious memories of "Dat" "Coach Thompson" and he will always be remembered. Love you all Karen, Justin and Destini

Deepest Condolences to the Thompson and Phifer families. Mr.Thompson was a gem of a principal! He was a shining star for the students, faculty and employees of Hybla Valley Elementary School. I was thrilled to be hired by him as a kindergarten teacher! He was always very professional and always wore a big smile. He was dedicated to meeting the educational needs of the students! I will always be grateful to him for hiring me as an asset to the educational needs of the students. Dorothy T.Andrews

Hello Family... Mr. Thompson hired me as a 2nd grade teacher many many years ago at Belle View ES. I had just moved to Virginia from South Carolina. Then I followed him to Hybla Valley. He was the kindest most gentle person to work for. He always asked about my daughter's basketball games. At Hybla Valley when we had the mini basketball league he was the referee in dress shoes. Many Condolences.... Anna Ford

Condolences and prayers for loss. May God comfort you at this difficult time. My memories of Tommy were memorable. He was my principal, colleague, and friend and will be missed.

Mr. Thompson was a gentleman, caring principal, mentor, and role model to so many students and staff over the years. I was blessed to serve as his assistant principal at Hybla Valley Elementary in 1997-1998. He taught me to always take the high road, to do what was right in spite of others, and to always raise others up. When I became a principal, I continued to follow his teachings. His legacy lives on through others.

My deepest condolences to his family.

Patricia Zissios, Ph.D.

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