A senate RESOLUTION

 

TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF carlton wilkes thompson, affectionately known as "gamecock jesus," AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Carlton Wilkes Thompson on Wednesday, December 6, 2023; and

 

Whereas, a native of Orangeburg, Carlton was born on September 12, 1953 to parents Pringle C. Thompson and Mary Blackmon Thompson; and

 

Whereas, Carlton was an alumnus of the University of South Carolina's nursing program. He was employed for more than thirty-three years at William Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affair Medical Center, Lexington Medical Center, and the former South Carolina State Hospital. He was known for his integrity and focus on patient care and advocacy; and

 

Whereas, Carlton was best known by the Gamecock community for his passionate support of Gamecock athletics. He attended USC sporting events for more than fifty years and could regularly be found in the stands at men's and women's athletic events; and

 

Whereas, Carlton's long hair, beard, signature bandana, and enthusiasm earned him his superfan status as well as his affectionate nickname, "Gamecock Jesus." The USC women's basketball team has retired his seat in the Colonial Life arena for the remainder of the season in his honor; and

 

Whereas, along with his parents, Carlton was preceded in death by his brother, Pringle C. Thompson, Jr.; his mother and father-in-law, John M. Dubil and Jacqueline W. Dubil; and his brothers-in-law, John M. Dubil, Jr. and Richard Glaser; and

 

Whereas, Carlton is survived by his loving wife, Judith Dubil Thompson. The two shared a strong marriage of devotion and support for each other since May 19, 1973; and

 

 

Whereas, he also leaves to cherish his memory his sons, Gregory M. Thompson and Nicholas M. Thompson; his grandson, Fletcher Thompson; his grandchild, Pac Thompson; his sister-in-law, Susan D. Glaser; his nephew, Eric J. Glaser (Catherine); his uncle, John L. Wagner; his aunt, Myrtle K. Bruno (David); and many loving cousins and friends. He will be greatly missed.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, express profound sorrow upon the passing of Carlton Wilkes Thompson, affectionately known as "Gamecock Jesus," and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Carlton Thompson.

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