Joe F. Thompson died Thursday, Sept. 27, 2012, at Baptist Medical Center in Jackson. He was 81.

Mr. Thompson was a longtime resident of the Rodney community and lived in Vicksburg for the past eight years. He retired after 37 years with Southwest Electric Power Association in Lorman, where he was a meter calibrator. He was an avid gardener and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Port Gibson.

Survivors include his wife, Ruby W. Thompson of Florence; stepdaughter, Sherril Strong of Utica; stepson, Don Curtis of Florence; two sisters, Marie Grant of Water Valley and Carolyn Gardner of Baton Rouge; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Graveside services were held Saturday at 11 a.m. at Cane Ridge Cemetery in Lorman with the Rev. John Hancock officiating.

Pallbearers were Don Curtis, David Strong, Charlie Welch, Daniel Sims, Brad Strong and J.D. Lambrano.

Glenwood Funeral Home in Vicksburg was in charge of arrangements.