Phillip Thompson

Phillip (Phil) E.Thompson, Colonel USAF (Ret.), passed away January 24, 2026 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. He is survived by those "he considered the most important people in his life"; his wife, Janice Marks Thompson, his sons Stephen(Tami), Gregory(Megan), Michael(Laia) and six precious grandchildren: Connor, Luke, Mikaela, Elise, Liam, and Luc.

Born 85 years ago in Lodi ,Ohio he grew up on a dairy farm in Wayne County.Phil was a lifelong learner, earning degrees from The College of Wooster and the Universty of Maryland. An avid hiker, walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain and England's Sea to Sea, at ages 73 and 75 respectively. A non-stop traveler his garden kept him busy in-between adventures. Above all he was an extraordinary husband, family man, and friend.

In his military career Phil subscribed to the motto "In God we trust, all others we monitor". He served as a Signals and Human Intelligence officer in Pakistan, Vietnam, Germany, Greece, Poland (Air Attache), at the National Security Agency, and the Air Force Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence.

His military awards included the Defense Superior Service Medal, three Legions of Merit, five Meritorious Service Medals, and two Citations of Valor. In 2022 he was inducted into the Freedom Through Vigilance Association Hall of Honor for performance with great distinction.

He concluded his career as a member of the United States Army War College faculty, considering it a distinct privilege. Phil was grateful to serve his country and to meet so many wonderful people.

He considered it an honor to wear the uniform of the United States Air Force.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents Ruth (Miller) and Harold Thompson and sister Connie Graham. He will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Joyce Shrimplin (Don), Lisa Calame (Kevin), Jim Thompson and devoted nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorial service will be private and joyous as Phil wished.