Fr. Jerome H. Thompson, better known as Fr. Jerry, was born on July 21, 1932, in Southern California. His school years were spent in the Long Beach area. Fr. Jerry was an only child until 1942 when his brother Michael was born to his parents Wade and Muriel Thompson.
After high school graduation, Fr. Jerry enrolled at Long Beach City College, taking courses in psychology and sociology. He was searching for some meaning in life, and this search led him to the Catholic Church. After his conversion, he applied and was accepted at St. John’s Seminary to train as a priest. Fr. Jerry was ordained for the Los Angeles Archdiocese in 1960. His priesthood led to the conversion of his mother, father and brother.
Fr. Jerry served as an associate priest at a number of parishes in L.A. County including St. James (Redondo Beach), St. Bruno (Whittier), Our Lady of the Rosary (Sun Valley), St. John Vianney (Hacienda Heights), and Our Lady of Grace (Encino). He served as the chaplain for the Newman club at Cal State Northridge where he enjoyed working with young adults. One of Fr. Jerry’s assignments was a term as Vicar for Priests under Cardinal Mahoney. He also spent some time as a member-at-large for the Priest’s Council.
Fr. Jerry was among a small number of priests to who chose to go on a Marriage Encounter weekend, an experience that made a difference in his life. It deepened his heart-felt love for God and God’s family.
Fr. Jerry’s health was not robust and in his later years, he ended up needing skilled nursing care. These years were spent at Marycrest Manor in Culver City where he was lovingly cared for by the Carmelite Sisters.
Fr. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and brother. He is survived by his sister-in-law Vicki, his niece Sarah, and her children Gwenyth, Chase, and Izabelle (Izze).
