Obituary of Donald Lewis Thompson
Donald Lewis Thompson, 85, of Benton Township and formerly of Scranton, died peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, after a valiant fight with pancreatic cancer. He was comforted by nurses from Hospice of the Sacred Heart and by longtime caregivers and friends Steve and Susanne Green.
Early Life and Education
Born in Scranton, Don was the only child of the late Herbert Thompson and Hazel Parker Thompson. He was raised in the Hill Section by his grandparents, Annie and Elias Parker, who encouraged his early talents and sense of purpose.
A 1958 graduate of Scranton Technical High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Scranton and a master’s from Marywood University. He later pursued advanced study in voice and choral direction at the Juilliard School of Music in New York City.
Career and Achievements
In 1962 Thompson became the first Black male teacher in the Scranton School District. He taught at Scranton Technical High School and Prescott Elementary, serving students there until 1984. He also held teaching posts at the University of Scranton and Marywood University and worked as a ...