Leon Alexander

Leon Alexander Thompson, son of Jennie Belton Thompson and Newton Alexander Thompson, was born February 23, 1924, in Hill County, Texas. He was reared by his grandmother, Lillie Thompson, in Denton, Texas, where he attended public school. When old enough to work in the fields, he returned to the farm where he was born to help his father and brother, Slim, now deceased, with planting and harvesting, Other siblings included Opal and Leta Rue, now deceased. Leon and his family, who were dedicated to each other, have given many fond memories at the family gatherings. He met and married his wife, Betha Helen Wadley, daughter of Olive and Bert Wadley, in Denton on February 18, 1945, after returning from World War II, where he served in England as a Corporal in the Air Force Army. He attended North Texas Teacher's College where he earned a Bachelor's Degree and Masters Degree in Industrial Arts. He and Betha moved their family to Beaumont, Texas, where he taught three generations of high school students. In addition, he drove a school bus and worked the ship yards to earn extra money to support his young family. He lived a Christian life and was active in the First Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for many years. A dedicated family member, he and Betha ensured that their three children completed university degrees. After retiring from public education, he and Betha moved to Colorado, where they had many happy years with their new friends, especially Billy and Margarett Rogers, now deceased. In 2010, Leon moved to Houston, where he shared a home with his daughter, Jean LaGrone. He quietly departed this life early Friday morning, April 21, 2017 at Herman Memorial Hospital Katy, Texas. Preceded in death are his wife, Betha Helen, youngest child, Thomas Norwood Thompson, and great-granddaughter Rylee Thompson. His wonderful life will forever be cherished in the lives of his children, Jean Kathleen LaGrone, Leon Alexander Thompson, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Lorraine Thompson as well as many grandchildren, John Thompson, Alexander Thompson, Andrew LaGrone, Benjamin LaGrone, Jason Thompson and Heidi Lambright. The many great-grandchildren include Alexander and Marit LaGrone, Daphne, Darby and Jessica LaGrone, Britton Thompson, as well as Alexis, Brett and Caitlin Butaud.. His friendly personality and influence will forever remain in the lives of all who know him. He will be missed by a host of devoted friends and family.