Dr. Stanley Burton Thompson

Dr. Stanley Burton Thompson passed into eternity on June 15, 2025, in Traverse City, Michigan, at the age of 82 with his wife of over 60 years, Janet, by his side. Born on July 2, 1942, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to missionary parents, W. Ralph and Claribel Thompson, Stan’s life was marked by dedication to faith, family, education, and philanthropy.

Stan graduated from Taylor University, earning a masters from Ball State University and a doctorate in English literature education from Indiana University. He began his career teaching high school literature before transitioning to the Free Methodist Church World Headquarters Publishing House in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he served as Assistant Publisher. It was there that he launched the Free Methodist Church's first Planned Giving department.

Stan's leadership continued as he served as Vice President for Advancement at Spring Arbor University. He then went on to found the Free Methodist Foundation, serving as its President and CEO of King Trust Company, which later evolved into FM Financial.

Stan is survived by his wife, Janet (Richardson) Thompson; his son Steven and daughter-in-law Bethany (Ryan) Thompson, and their sons, Josh, Ryan, and Drew; his son David and daughter-in-law Natalie (d’Aubermont) Thompson, and their children, Shepherd, Rock, and Noëlle; and his daughter Jill (Thompson) Morrison, and her children, Judah and Frances.

In his retirement, Stan enjoyed spending time not only in Spring Arbor but also in Northern Michigan as well as Sun City Center, Florida. Many memories were made there by hosting friends and family. 

Stan also left a lasting impact through his personal pursuits and community involvement. In high school, he was the captain of his Thornton High School basketball team, leading them to the Illinois State Final Four. Throughout his life, he nurtured a passion for the written word, writing and publicly reciting poetry. His commitment to service extended to numerous boards, including The Arbor Church and the Central Africa Health Care Organization.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at The Arbor Church – 120 East Main Street, Spring Arbor, Friday, June 27, 2025 at 11:00am, with visitation beginning at 10:00am.

Stan’s former pastor,  Reverend J. Mark VanValin, will be officiating. Interment, Spring Arbor Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to The Arbor Church or the Central Africa Health Organization.

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