Timothy S. Thompson

Timothy S. Thompson, 68, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Born May 17, 1958, to Brad and Mary Ann Thompson, in Wichita, Timothy graduated from Wichita North High School in 1977. His lifelong career in the food service industry began while he was still in high school, working at Furr’s Cafeteria. Just one week after graduation, he was transferred to Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to manage one of the company’s locations. His natural leadership abilities and strong work ethic led him to manage restaurants in several cities, including Fort Smith, Arkansas; Independence, Missouri; Sulphur Springs, Texas; and Irving, Texas. He developed a particular talent for revitalizing struggling locations, transforming underperforming restaurants into successful, thriving establishments.

Throughout his career, Timothy held a variety of positions, including working for the Coleman Company, Everhart’s Market as a butcher, and in coffee sales and delivery for Cains Coffee. He eventually returned to Furr’s, managing several locations, including the restaurant at Pawnee and Broadway in Wichita. He later worked for Hometown Buffet before joining Jason’s Deli, where he worked his way into management and dedicated 23 years of service.

More than his professional accomplishments, Timothy will be remembered for the way he treated people. A true people person, he never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He had a genuine curiosity about others and took pleasure in getting to know the people he encountered. His kindness and compassion were especially evident in the way he treated those working in the food service industry. Having spent much of his own life in their shoes, he made a point of learning their names, acknowledging their efforts, and ensuring they felt appreciated and valued.

Outside of work, Timothy enjoyed playing golf and was an enthusiastic sports fan. He faithfully cheered on the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, Wichita State basketball and baseball teams, and the Kansas Jayhawks. Above all, he treasured his family, particularly his son and two granddaughters. He took great pride in attending his granddaughters’ athletic events, cheering them on, and supporting the activities and interests that brought them happiness.

Timothy approached life with an enduring sense of optimism. Regardless of the challenges he faced, he remained positive, choosing to focus on the good in life and in those around him. His strength and determination were evident throughout his life, and he remained a true fighter until the very end. He will be remembered for his welcoming personality, generous heart, remarkable resilience, and the simple but meaningful way he made others feel seen and appreciated. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the family he loved so dearly.

Timothy is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Teresa Richardson. He is survived by his son, Matthew S. Thompson; granddaughters, Alayna A. Thompson and Lyla I. Thompson, and their mother, Kayla Moler all of Wichita, Kansas; siblings, Stephen (Susanne) Thompson of Goddard, Kansas, Rebecca (Randy) Holm of Lecompton, Kansas, and Tony Thompson of Taft, California and brother-in-law Forrest Richardson Jr.

Rosary will be at 10:00 am, Funeral Mass at 10:30 am, both on Friday, October 23, 2026, at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 3642 North. Ridge Road, Wichita, Kansas 67205.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established with Catholic Charities, 437 N. Topeka Ave., Wichita, Kansas 67202, and The Lord’s Diner, 520 N. Broadway St., Wichita, Kansas 67214.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.