William Thompson

Lebanon, NH- Our community lost a deeply loved and familiar presence when William "Bill" Thompson, 58, died unexpectedly at home on Saturday, May 2 , 2026.

Bill was a well-known and deeply loved member of this community. Everyone who knew him loved him, and truly, everyone knew him. Having grown up here, he formed lifelong friendships, and each person who knew him carries their own memories of being welcomed, included, and cared for by him.

Bill was funny, full of life, and brought joy wherever he went. He loved music and dancing, making TikTok dance videos with friends, and had a lighthearted way of lifting the mood of any room he entered. Bill also cared deeply about civic life and advocacy. He never missed the opportunity to vote and was a strong advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities. He was part of People First of New Hampshire Self Advocacy and traveled throughout the country to attend Self Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE) conferences. He also participated in Special Olympics, another community that brought him connection and joy.

Bill had a remarkable way of bringing people together, often connecting those who might not otherwise have crossed paths. Through his warmth and spirit, he created community everywhere he went. He was a familiar and cherished presence at many places throughout the Upper Valley, including Spark! Community Center, SNSC, Zack's Place, Visions, Next Steps, Lucky’s Coffee Garage, the Lebanon Library, Advance Transit bus routes, and many more. In each of these spaces, he built relationships and left a lasting impression. Bill was actively involved in working throughout his life and deeply valued the friendships, routines, and sense of community that came from being part of workplaces over the years.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, Beverly and Lawrence Thompson, and his uncles, Kenneth Murphy and William Murphy, Jr. He is lovingly remembered by many beloved family members including his aunt, Dianne Murphy, his cousins, Timothy Murphy and McKenzie McNelis, Timothy’s wife Hannah, as well as a wide circle of friends, staff, and community members who were like family to him.

Bill’s life was filled with connection, laughter, and meaning, and his presence will be deeply missed and long remembered.

A Celebration of Bill’s Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, at 10:00 AM at Crosspoint Church in Lebanon. Following the service, there will be a procession to Lakeview Cemetery in Enfield, where Bill will be laid to rest. Friends and community members are then invited to gather afterward for food, memories, music, and continued celebration of Bill’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Spark!, a place that meant so much to Bill and where he spent many hours connecting with friends.

Knight Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at www.knightfuneralhomes.com