Robert W. Thompson, a devoted father, entered into rest on September 30, 2026, at the age of 88. His life reflected the values that shaped his family across generations: devotion to loved ones, steadfast faith, perseverance, pride, and a commitment to justice and equality.

He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in August 1938 to Estelle E. Allen Williams and Harry B. Thompson, Sr.

Robert, the youngest of 8 children grew up in Roxbury and attended Boston Public Schools, where he participated in football and track.

Robert took great pride in his family’s history of service and the struggle for civil rights. His ancestors included two Civil War soldiers from New Bedford, Massachusetts, who served in Company C of the 54th Massachusetts Regiment. His great-grandfather, Charles Edward Allen, was a seaman and whaler before joining the regiment, where he served as an acting chaplain. A marksman remembered for carrying a Bible in one hand and a rifle in the other, Charles embodied the faith and courage that remained central to Robert’s family legacy.

He was also influenced by Corporal James H. Gooding, his great uncle. He was also a seaman and whaler, as well as a writer whose letters to a New Bedford newspaper chronicled the war. His appeal to President Abraham Lincoln for equal pay for Black soldiers helped advance the fight for justice.

Equal-pay legislation followed in June 1864.

Affectionately known as “Uncle Bobby,” Robert shared these stories with Boston Public Schools students, helping a new generation understand the courage, sacrifice, and perseverance of those who came before them. In 1989, he joined students from the Robert Gould Shaw School at the Boston premiere of the award-winning film Glory, which brought the story of the 54th Massachusetts Regiment to the screen.

Robert carried that same commitment to equality into his own working life. During his many years at Star Market, he advocated for civil rights in the workplace and rose from porter to manager through perseverance and hard work.

He always had a side hustle selling fresh chickens on Saturday to 30 loyal customers or driving seniors to doctors appointments.

Above all he enjoyed the theatre, camping, traveling by RV, and trips to the casino, finding pleasure in adventure and time spent with those he loved.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Suzanne, Sheryl and her husband, Kent Times, and Stephanie; his son, Micah, and his wife, Irene. His granddaughters, Mikayla and Taylor brightened his life with joy, love and pride.

He was forever grateful to his former wife, Nancy Robinson Thompson who blessed him with four beautiful children.

The last surviving member of his generation, Robert was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Harry B. Thompson Jr., Thelma Thompson, Paul Thompson, Thomas Thompson, Prescott Thompson, John Thompson, and Joseph Thompson and his very dear friend Judy Stuart.

Robert leaves a legacy of love, faith, and quiet determination. His memory lives on in the family he cherished, the history he preserved, and the example he set of standing with pride and persevering in the pursuit of justice.