Joanne Thompson

JOANNE U. THOMPSON November 19, 1933 - March 3, 2011 Peggy Joanne Thompson, Vice-President and Co-Founder of Dove Broadcasting, WGGS-TV 16, died March 3, 2011 at the Woodlands in Greenville, South Carolina. Mrs. Thompson and her husband, Dr. James H. Thompson, are considered visionaries and pioneers in Christian broadcasting. Since October 1972, Joanne and Jimmy have been devoted to producing high quality, family-oriented Christian programming. Together they have made outstanding contributions to not only South Carolina but to the nation and the world. Joanne touched the lives of thousands of people in Appalachia, Romania and Moldova. She also had an ongoing prison ministry and assistance to families in need. She lived her life in service to children and families who were hurting and had no hope. She received many Angel Awards for excellence in media for documentaries featuring her mission outreach projects. She was a member of Faith Temple Church. Her commitment to all God's people regardless of race, social status or denomination has touched lives for over three generations. Joanne has been a mentor for many women who are serving in ministry today. Her goal was to empower individuals to achieve the highest standards of ministry for today's hurting world. For 38 years, Joanne was a regular host of WGGS TV-16's flagship program “Nite-Line”. She also hosted “You Can Make It,” and a children's program “The Jo-Mitch Show.” Her life is truly a cause for celebration. In addition to her beloved husband, Dr. James H. Thompson, she is survived by her sons, Dante Maurice Thompson and his wife Katie, Chad Duane Thompson and his wife, Christina, Vincent Gene Thompson and his wife, Betty. She had two beautiful granddaughters, Riley and Hannah. She had one grandson, Shane Thompson and his wife, Nikita and one beautiful great-granddaughter, Bristol. She had a very special sister-in-law, Margaret B. Upton. Joanne was predeceased by her mother, Ester Sylvey Upton and a brother, Raymond Fred Upton. The family is at the home of Dante and Katie Thompson, 317 Magnolia Meadow Lane, Taylors, S.C. 29687. Visitation will be held 3:00-6:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 5, 2011 at the WGGS-TV-16 studio. The funeral service will be 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 6, 2011 at Faith Temple Church with Dr. Coy Barker and Dr. Jerry Goff officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Flowers will be accepted. Any donations should be made to Dove Broadcasting, 3409 Rutherford Road, Taylors, South Carolina 29687. The family wishes to thank the many viewers and supporters of Dove Broadcasting. To God Be The Glory, Great Things He Hath Done! Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com