Eltoria "Al" Thompson

Eltoria Lester Thompson, also known as “Big Al” or “Al” passed away peacefully on November 6, 2024 at the Hospice Home by the Lake, after a courageous year and a half battle with liver cancer. Al was born on April 10, 1958 to the late James Lester Thompson and Edna Elizabeth Macer in Cambridge, MD. Al attended North Dorchester High School through the 12th grade. He worked for many years at the Dececco Tomato Factory in Rhodesdale, MD and also served as a detailer at Preston Ford. However, Al’s greatest passion professionally was being employed as a mechanic at the poultry plants on the Eastern Shore. He later worked for McCall Handling as forklift mechanic, a job that he also loved and retired in 2020 from Eastern Truck Forklift. 

Al was a devoted servant of God. He was an ordained minister at All Walks of Life Outreach Ministries, where he also served as head of the usher department. His favorite scripture was “I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God” Psalm 84:10; a verse that reflected his humble and servant – hearted nature. Al was passionate about sharing his testimony of God’s grace, especially during times of his illness. 

In addition to his ministry work, Al was known for his generous spirit and willingness to help others. Whether it was fixing brakes, changing the oil, cleaning gutters, cutting grass, working on lawnmowers, or even stopping to help someone with a broken down car at any hour of the day or night; Al was always there to lend a hand. During his downtime, Big Al found peace and joy in the simple pleasures of life – particularly fishing and crabbing. He enjoyed making people laugh and was known for his quiet demeanor, but his love for God and others spoke volumes. 

Al now joins his beloved parents, James Lester Thompson and Edna Elizabeth Macer, along with aunts, uncles, a special nephew Russell Jews, and brother in law, Herbert Dashiell in eternal rest. 

Al is survived by his devoted wife of 23 years, Bonnie Yvette Thompson, whom he called “Angel,” and their blended family. He leaves behind children, Torianne Tomorrow (Byron), Wilmington, DE, Eltoria Lester Thompson Jr, Federalsburg, MD, James Edward Thompson Sr, Salisbury, MD, Michael Derick Dashiell, Havre De Grace, MD, Jocelyn Charnelle Wilson, Parsonsburg, MD, James (Shalonda) Herbert Collins V, Princess Anne, MD, along with three stepsons from his first marriage Ebony Jones, Virgin Islands, Shawmba Jones, Seaford ,DE, Sykia Jones, Seaford, DE.. Al also had 30 grandchildren, one beautiful great granddaughter, and several nieces and nephews, each of whom he had a unique and loving relationship with. He was known for having a kind word, offering encouragement, and his special nicknames for his beloved family members. He also leaves behind two sisters, Hilda Dashiell, Seaford, DE, and Lavern (Walt) Jackson, Federalsburg, MD, and five brothers, Darnell (Shirl) Thompson, Mardela Springs, MD, Bobby (Dawn) Thompson, Sharptown, MD, Marvin Thompson SR., Eldorado, MD, Clevon (Brenda) Thompson, Smyrna, DE, and Anthony (Audrey) Macer, Bridgeville, DE. 

Al will always be remembered by his family as their “Gentle Giant.” His presence brought warmth and joy to all who knew him, and his ability to lift their spirits with a kind word or hearty laugh was unmatched. Al will be dearly missed, but his spirit will continue to guide and inspire those he leaves behind. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord” 2 Corinthians 5:8. Al is now in the arms of God.

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