William Warren " Bill" Thompson

AUGUSTA, GA – Mr. William Warren “Bill” Thompson, 88, entered into rest on Friday, May 1, 2020 at his residence.

Bill was born in Augusta but moved to Macon, GA as a teenager. After finishing school, Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. It was during his service that he married his high school sweetheart, Mildred Ann Payne. While stationed in Germany, Bill and Millie traveled throughout Europe. Married for 61 years, they never lost their love for traveling the world.

Bill’s career in the jewelry industry was a true example of hard work and the American success story, spanning 52 years with A. A. Friedman Company (Friedman’s Jewelers). His passion for the business and his impeccable work ethic took him from sweeping floors at the age of 12 to retiring as President and CEO of the company.

He was a longtime member of Mabel Lodge No. 255 (Free & Accepted Masons) and the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite. Additionally, he served with many community and professional organizations during his lifetime.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents Remus and Mattie Lou (Watkins) Thompson, his wife Mildred Ann (Payne) Thompson, and a son William James Thompson.

He is survived by his son Alan Thompson (Teresa); his grandchildren Payne Thompson (Kristen), Rob Thompson (Meghan), and Rowan Thompson; and by his great-grandchildren Millie and Will.

Due to the current restrictions associated with the Covid-19 virus, a graveside service will be live streamed on the Platt’s Funeral Home Facebook page at 2:00pm on Tuesday, May 5, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Masonic Home of Georgia, 1417 Nottingham Drive, Macon, GA 31211.