Garey Eugene Thompson Sr.

Obituary

Garey Eugene Thompson, 56, passed away in Woodland Hills, California, on October 19, 2023. He was born on June 29, 1967, in Los Angeles, California, to parents Delores Ethlyn Middleton and Larry Bruce Thompson. He was united in matrimony to LaSonya Terese Walker on December 04, 2015. Garey is a beloved husband, father, son, brother, cousin, and friend. He dedicated his life to helping others and was a beloved member of his community. Garey was known to all that knew him by his vibrant smile, infectious personality, and weekly check in calls.

Garey received his primary education at Annalee Elementary School and Curtis Middle School in Carson, California. He went on to graduate from Susan Miller Dorsey Senior High School in 1985. While at Dorsey, Garey played varsity football and served the student body as Junior and Senior Class Vice President. Garey's commitment to education continued as he obtained a Master's in Public Administration from Cal State University Dominguez Hills. He later returned as a substitute professor for that department.

Garey proudly served in the United States Army, stationed abroad in Germany and Korea. His military service exemplified his dedication and commitment to his country.

Throughout his professional career, Garey dedicated his professional life to helping others. His passion was serving at-risk youth. He began his professional career under the guidance of Dr. Daniel L. Morgan, founder of Guidance Church of Religious Science. For the past thirteen years, Garey was a dedicated member of D'Veal Family and Youth Services, where he held various roles including QA Program Staff Supervisor, Quality Assurance Assistant, and dual role as MIS Coordinator and Behavioral Specialist Supervisor.

Although he excelled at each role, his role as Behavioral Specialist Supervisor was particularly meaningful to him. He provided training and evaluations for Behavioral Specialists, demonstrating his dedication to their professional growth. Garey's leadership and supervision were instrumental in ensuring quality clinical interventions for clients receiving mental health services. He actively participated in community outreach projects, always striving to improve the lives of those he served.

Garey was an intelligent and vibrant spiritual being. Beyond his professional life, Garey had a vibrant personality and a zest for life. He loved to travel and loved exploring new places. Garey loved sports and was a die-hard fan of the Los Angeles Lakers and Raiders. He passionately supported his favorite teams. He had a deep appreciation for music, especially jazz, and cherished moments spent listening to his favorite tunes. Garey enjoyed spending time with his cousins and was often the life of the party, bringing laughter and light to those around him. He was never too busy to call and check in with you just to see how you were doing.

Garey is survived by his loving wife, La Sonya Terese Thompson; four sons: Garey Eugene Thompson II, LaVonte Travion Younger (Krystal), Shehib Taylor Jr., and Joseph Vasquez (Ashlee). He is also survived by his mother, Delores Ethlyn Middleton; father, Larry Bruce Thompson; stepmother, Mattie Jean Thompson; mother-in-law, Rebecca Walker; three brothers: David Soul Paolino I (Fujica), Bruce Gordon Thompson (Kameron), and Lawrence Brian Thompson (Brook). As well as three brothers-in-law: Erwin D. Walker (Terry), Edwin D. Walker (Lisa), and Simmie L. Walker Jr. (Ruth). He will be deeply missed by his eight nephews: David Soul Paolino II, Dillon Paul Paolino, Aaron Travis Thompson, Justin Walker, Austin Walker, Johnathon Walker, Dominic Walker, and Roman Walker; and his five nieces: Alexis Rae Thompson, Gianna Thompson, Mya Lee Thompson, Destiny Walker, and Brooklyn Walker. Garey also leaves behind a host of beloved cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends whom he loved very much.

Garey Eugene Thompson will be remembered for his dedication to service, his love for his family, and his vibrant spirit. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His spirit lives on.