David L. Thompson (80) of Newton

David L. Thompson, 80, of Newton passed away Sunday, April 11, 2021 at the Newton Care Center.

Memorial services celebrating David’s life will be held at 12 noon, Friday, April 16, 2021 at the Crain Funeral Home, Newton with Rev. Steve Willis officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of service Friday, April 16 in the funeral home. Burial will be in the Bethel Cemetery, Yale, Illinois.

David was born on December 10, 1940 in Oblong, Illinois the son of Lawrence “Button” and Thelma (McFarland) Thompson. On July 24, 1971, David married Cleora Purcell Burton. They shared twenty-nine years of marriage before her death on July 17, 2001. A graduate of Eastern Illinois University, David began his teaching career at Yale Grade School in 1963. In addition to teaching, he served as principal and boys’ basketball coach. Following the school consolidations, he taught at Newton Community High School until his retirement in 2000. During his years at the high school, David served as assistant girls’ basketball coach, scholastic team sponsor and class sponsor for many graduating classes. David was a member of the First Baptist Church of Newton, Jasper County Retired Teachers’ Association, Elk’s Club of Robinson and the Muskie Fishing Club. In his free time, David enjoyed golfing and was an avid fisherman.

He will be remembered by his step-children Raymond (Dianne) Burton, Rodger Burton and Richard (Denise) Burton all of Newton and Cheryl Woods of Olney; 10 step-grandchildren; 18 step-great grandchildren and 3 step-great-great grandchildren; sister Lenora Corriveau of Algonquin, IL; and six nieces and nephews.

His parents, wife, sister Kathryn Denhart, daughter-in-law Ann Burton and son-in-law Robin Woods preceded him in death.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Jasper County Retired Teachers’ Scholarship, c/o Pete Pasero, No. 6 Jeffrey, Newton, Illinois 62448. Online condolences may be offered by clicking here.