Obituary of Honourable Gregory Francis Thompson

It is with great sadness that the family of the Honourable Gregory Francis Thompson, P.C. announces his passing on Tuesday, September 10th, at the Saint John Regional Hospital while surrounded by his family. Greg was born March 28th, 1947 in St. Stephen, NB to the late Ralph and Rose (Watters) Thompson. He was the loving husband to Linda for 51 years on September 18th. Greg was well known and respected by people across Canada. He was first elected to the House of Commons in 1988 and, between 1988 and 2010, served six terms as a Member of Parliament until his retirement in 2010. In 2006, Greg was appointed the Minister of Veterans Affairs and served proudly in that role until his retirement from federal politics. In 2018, Greg answered the call to public service again when he was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for the riding of Saint Croix on September 24th, 2018 and was appointed the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs on November 9th, 2018. There are very few people in life that are fortunate enough to find a career that fulfills them. Greg loved serving his constituents and his ability to connect with people was a special gift. Greg served the people in his riding, both federally and provincially, with passion and determination and ensured that their voices were always heard. Greg attended St. Thomas University as a mature student and completed both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees. His first career following university was a history teacher at Fundy High School. Greg was very proud meeting many of his former students while out on the campaign trail or in his constituency office. Greg treasured his time hiking Chamcook Mountain with their little Westie, Sophie. He loved nature and was energized by the majesty of the outdoors. Greg’s proudest achievement is the beautiful life that he shared with Linda. During 51 years of marriage, Greg and Linda shared a special love and partnership that is admired by their family. The love and support that Greg and Linda shared with their sons Gregory and Christian will always remain a cherished part of Greg’s legacy. The special relationship that Greg had with his sons will always remain an important part of their lives. In addition, Greg and Linda were blessed with a beautiful grandson, Julian, on July 9th, 2015 who provides their greatest joy. Greg will be dearly missed by his wife Linda; sons Gregory (Jennifer) and Christian (Lindsay); and grandson Julian; and brother Phillip (Christine); sisters Gail (Steve) Smith and Margaret Ann Thompson; and many nieces and nephews. Greg’s favourite poet was Robert Frost. “The woods are lovely, dark, and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep.” You have kept all your promises Greg and now you can sleep. We love you. Rest in Peace. Arrangements are under the care of Castle Funeral Home 309 Lancaster Avenue, Saint John, NB E2M 2L3 506-634-1701. A Funeral Service will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, 77 King Street, Saint Andrews, NB on Friday, September 20th, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please place donations in Gregory’s memory to the Charlotte County Cancer Society. Online condolences can be made at www.castlefh.com.