Charles Frederick Thompson

Charles Frederick Thompson, son of the late Charles F. Thompson and Irene C. Thompson was born September 9, 1921 in Baltimore, Maryland. After a brief illness, he drew his earthly curtain and slipped peacefully away early Monday morning, September 7, 2004.He was educated in Baltimore City Public Schools and graduated from Carver Vocational High School in 1939. Shortly after graduation, he went into the US Army and served his country proudly during World War II. Having a keen ear for music, Charles learned to play the saxophone in the Army and became a member of the US Army Band. More importantly, he was a member of a distinguished and elite group-the Buffalo Soldiers. (Historical note: in 1866, Congress established regiments of Black soldiers in the regular army, to be led by white officers. These regiments served on the frontier, often in the most difficult regions. The name “Buffalo Soldiers” seems to have originated with the Native Americans, possibly because Black soldiers reminded the Native Americans of the head on the buffalo or because the Native Americans likened the Black Soldiers courage to that of the buffalo. This traditional name of Buffalo Soldiers remained with Black units until All Black army units were banned during the mid 20th century.In 1943 he married the late Helen M. Bailey. They enjoyed forty-two years together. From this union was born their son, Reginald C. Thompson, Sr.Charles received his early religious training, his First Communion, and Confirmation through the Catholic Church. Later, he joined Harlem Baptist Church being one of its first members. He served on the usher board. He enjoyed visiting and attending services at many churches in the community.Returning home from the war, Charles began a career that would last for 37 years as a mechanic for Rea Keech Buick. He also worked for five years in the Baltimore County School System.Charles was not a person who enjoyed being idle. He was active in VFW, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and served as a member as well as commander of the Thompson-Miller Post #9527. Instead of enjoying a life of leisure during his golden retirement years, he volunteered at the Ruscombe Gardens Apartments working in the kitchen, decorating during the holidays, coordinating parties and trips, and serving in any way that the residents of that community needed him.He always enjoyed music and played the saxophone with the Jimmy Smith Rockets of Rhythm Band for over twenty years. The band entertained people all over the Baltimore Metropolitan Area.Charles leisure-time activities included playing horseshoes and cards, shooting pool and listening to music-especially “Oldies” and spirituals. He enjoyed spending time with his family and used his great sense of humor to keep everyone laughing. He remained an authority on auto mechanics and was able to answer questions and give competent advice to anyone who asked.He leave to cherish his memories his son, “Reggie,” one granddaughter, Tammi; two grandsons, Steven and Reginald Jr.; one grandson-in-law, Paul; one granddaughter-in-law, Leah; and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves his sister, Elveria Jackson; two brothers, Allen Thompson and Carl Thompson; three sisters-in-law, Lorraine Thompson, Maeola Thompson and Pearl Thompson; two brothers-in-law, John Jackson and William C. Straughn; a host of nieces, nephews, and many, many friends.

Tributes

Charles Frederick Thompson

September 9, 1921 - September 6, 2004