Vernel Thompson, 72, of Salina, passed away Wednesday, March 6th, at Good Shepherd Hospice, Manhattan.

Vernel was born in Flora, Mississippi on December 31, 1951, a son of Jessie Mae (Thomas) and Hal T. Thompson, Sr.

He worked at Roberts Foundry for 10 years and Shears Construction for 20 years.

He was a loving father, partner, son, and friend.

Survivors include his wife, Pauline Thompson; daughter, Christina Johnson (Isaac), of Junction City; stepdaughter, Reola Lane, of Salina; two stepsons, Erik Wilson, of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Titus Lane, of Salina; 6 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Vernel is also survived by his sister, Shelly Thompson-Collier, of Salina; and two brothers, Calvin Thompson, of Topeka, and Roosevelt Thompson, of Salina.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Hal T. Thompson Jr., and sisters, Laura Hill and Paulette Samuel.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, March 16th at Living Word International Ministries, 915 Smith Ave, Salina, Kansas with Bishop Stephen Davison officiating.

Donations may be made to Living Word International Ministries, 915 Smith Ave, Salina, Kansas 67401.