D. Russell Thompson

Pastor D. Russell Thompson
March 23, 1946 – March 6, 2026

Pastor Russell “Russ” Thompson, 79, of Lexington, South Carolina, entered his Father’s house on Friday, March 6, 2026. Born March 23, 1946, in Huntington, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Harry F. Thompson and Ida Mae Muncie Thompson. Russ left an indelible mark on countless lives through his multifaceted ministry. The family wishes to thank all who prayed for, supported, and served them with love and care during these difficult months.

Russ was a devoted pastor, teacher, retired police chaplain, and retired regional insurance brokerage manager. In his earlier years he was a regionally known radio personality, touching many lives through his engaging presence on the airwaves. His life was characterized by a unique blend of spiritual leadership, gifted teaching, and a profound mantle of prayer that will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Guided by unwavering faith and trust in God’s plan, Russ experienced a transformative
encounter with Christ in his early forties, accepted Lord as his personal Savior, and dedicated his life to serving the Lord. He was blessed by the 17-year discipleship of the late Dr. E. Wayne Wall (DMin, DTh). His obedience to God’s call led him into many areas of ministry, including music, teaching small group Bible studies, Sunday School, and pastoral leadership. In 2003 he became senior pastor of RightConnection Church in Lexington, South Carolina, following Dr. Wall’s passing—a role he cherished deeply.

As a teenager, through his late twenties, and while attending Marshall University, Russ worked as a radio personality, producer, and emcee with stations including WKEE, WSAZ, and WCMI. His popular program, Rockin’ Russ Rebellion, brought well-known music groups to Huntington and surrounding areas. His daily WCMI program received Billboard Magazine’s 1965 award for small-market listenership.

In 1973 Russ transitioned into the insurance and financial services industry, serving as a
financial advisor and brokerage manager for nationally known companies throughout the Southeast. He retired in 1998 as Regional Manager for Principal Financial Group.

Russ’ heart for service extended beyond the church. For nearly a decade he served as chaplain for the Lexington Police Department, offering prayerful guidance and support to officers, their families, and the community. He was also a founding member of the South Carolina Public Safety Chaplains Association and participated in the International Conference of Police Chaplains. His kindness, integrity, and dedication inspired many and reflected the heart of a faithful chaplain.

Russ was predeceased by his brother, Dr. Richard A. Thompson of Phoenix, AZ. He is survived by his wife of 38 years and co-pastor Kathy Wall Thompson; his brother, Harry Thompson of Red Bank (Chattanooga), TN; his sons, Bryan Thompson of Greenville, SC, and Chris Thompson of Columbia, SC; his stepson, Adam Corbett (Bekah) of Columbia, SC; his granddaughter, Olivia Thompson of Charleston, SC; and beloved nieces and nephews across the country including AZ, CO, WVA, TN and SC.

A Homegoing Memorial Service will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Barr-Price Funeral Home Chapel, 609 Northwood Rd., Lexington, SC 29072. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions to the church he served with much love. Send to: RightConnection Church 100 Old Cherokee Rd. Lexington, SC 29072. An online donation link will be shared at a later date.

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