Monzell Lee “Farmer” Thompson, 76, of Elk City Community, Rt. #1, Philippi, died Friday morning, April 2, at his home following an extended illness. He was born April 29, 1933, near Philippi, a son of the late Allen Lee and Ada Ardelia (Springer) Thompson. On July 27, 1956, he married the former Jessie Maxine Shaffer, wh o survives at their home at Elk City Community. Also surviving are one sister, Evelyn “Tootie” Browning, Stephens City, Va.; her children, Cathy Welsh and husband, Allen, Stephens City, Daniel Browning and wife, Cathy, Morgantown; eight nieces and eleven nephews on Maxine’s side, including Susannah Zirkle and husband, Matt and their children, Haiden, Kaleb and Kaitlyn Zirkle who were particularly close to Mr. Thompson. Mr. Thompson was a veteran of the U. S. Army. He was a certified electrician, welder, equipment operator, truck driver and mechanic. He had worked in coal mining, logging, construction and automotive and truck repair. He was a member of the United Mine Worker’s of America, a former member of the Operating Engineers and was a member of Barbour Post #44, American Legion. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, April 6, from the Stemple & Forman Funeral Home, 385 So. Main Street, Philippi. The Rev. Larry Bailey will officiate and interment will follow in the Mt. Vernon Memorial Cemetery where military rites will be conferred by Barbour Post #44, American Legion. Friends may call at the funeral home from 3:00 until 9:00 P.M. on Monday and from 9:00 until 11:00 A.M. , the funeral hour, on Tuesday. Stemple & Forman Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.
