Lenton Dean Thompson, Sr., 82, affectionately known as “Big Pappa Dean,” passed away peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2025 at home.

A native and lifelong resident of Wayne County, Dean was born on December 18, 1942 to the late, Lenton and Pauline Batten Thompson.  He graduated from Wayne County High School and served his country in the United States Airforce during the Vietnam Era.  After returning home to the states, Dean worked for Rayonier Advanced Materials for over fifteen years before starting his own business working as a contractor.  Dean was a true jack-of-all-trades and could do almost anything he put his mind to.  He was an expert at framing, painting, electrical and plumbing.  In his spare time, Dean enjoyed fishing, doing puzzles, piddling around the house and watching the Georgia Bulldogs on television.  In addition to his parents, his former wife, best friend and mother of his children, Dale B. Lamb; his son, Lenton Dean Thompson, Jr. and two sisters,  Sandra Pounds and Cheryl Sweat, all preceded him in death.

Survivors include his son, Jody Wayne Thompson of Jesup; three grandchildren, Brooke Kinna of Jesup, Dylan Thompson of Athens and Madison Thompson of Jesup and great grandchildren, Katee, Kennedy, Daxton, Maxen and Docton.  A host of nieces, nephews and extended family members also survive.

Services will be private.