Charles

Benjamin

Thompson

March 5, 1947

October 10, 2023

Charles Benjamin Thompson, 76, of Springfield, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 10, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on March 5, 1947, in Providence, Rhode Island, to the late William and Lorraine Mitchell, Charles’s zest for life, his unyielding kindness, and his infectious laughter left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

Charles was a dedicated educator, having taught English at Springfield High School for over 40 years. He not only imparted academic knowledge but also life lessons, often going above and beyond to support his students both in and out of the classroom.

Outside of his teaching career, Charles was an avid gardener, a lover of classic literature, and a formidable chess player. His garden was a testament to his patience and love for nature, bursting with colors and fragrances that attracted neighbors and butterflies alike.

He married the love of his life, Roberta Thompson, in 1969. Their love story was one for the ages, filled with adventures, shared dreams, and an unwavering partnership. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Mark, Lisa, and Karen.

Charles is survived by his wife, Roberta; their children, Mark (Catherine) Thompson, Lisa (James) Worthington, and Karen (Michael) Donovan; and seven grandchildren, Olivia, Ethan, Sophia, Grace, Henry, Amelia, and Leo. He is also survived by his brother, Derek Mitchell, and a host of nieces, nephews, former students, and friends who considered him family.

A celebration of Charles’s life will be held at the Springfield Community Center on October 15, 2023, at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the “Springfield High School Scholarship Fund” in Charles’s name.

Charles’s legacy is not just in the memories he’s left behind, but in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, his wisdom, and his unwavering belief in the goodness of people. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever live on in the stories we share, the gardens we tend, and the lives we touch with love.

Memory Locations

Scroll through the Memory Location Slider below to learn more about each location. Each map marker shows a memory.

Every place holds a story; every location, a memory. The world is a canvas of interconnected moments, and the places we’ve been with our loved ones often echo with the laughter, joy, and shared experiences of yesteryears. In this special “Memory Locations” section, we’ve marked significant places that held meaning for [Loved One’s Name]. These aren’t just points on a map; they are windows into the cherished memories of a life beautifully lived.

A Memorable Day at Crystal Beach with Uncle Charles

It was one of those rare days when the entire family managed to come together. We had chosen Crystal Beach because Uncle Charles often shared stories of his youthful escapades there. He spoke of it as a place where the waves held whispered conversations with the sands and where each sunset seemed painted by the hand of a master artist. I remember him reclining on the beach towel, toes buried in the soft sand, his hearty laughter syncing perfectly with the rhythm of the lapping waves. He helped the younger ones build ambitious sandcastles and regaled us with tales from his younger days. As the sun set, casting the sky in a dance of gold and purple, Charles seemed particularly entranced, lost in a world of memories. That evening, he surprised us by playing a beautiful tune on his harmonica. We all joined in, some singing, some humming, and some simply swaying to the rhythm. As the melody ended, Uncle Charles looked at us all and said, “Treasure this day, not just for the beauty of this beach or the magic of the sunset, but for the love that binds us all. That, dear ones, is the true magic of Crystal Beach.” Every time I revisit that beach, I can still feel his presence, hear his harmonica, and am reminded of the lessons of love and togetherness he imparted that day.

Autumn Retreat at the Family Cabin

Every autumn, our family would gather at the Thompson Family Cabin in Lake Arrowhead. The air would be crisp, and the leaves would turn into a spectacular tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. October 15, 2012, was particularly memorable. Dad, as always, was the heart of our retreat. He would rise early to brew his special blend of coffee, the aroma filling the cabin and waking us up with its inviting scent. That year, he taught us how to make apple cider from the orchard nearby. We spent the day picking apples, and by evening, the cabin was filled with the sweet, spiced scent of simmering cider. We gathered around the fireplace that night, sipping the warm cider while Dad recounted family stories, each tale more enchanting than the last. His voice, steady and comforting, blended with the crackling of the fire, creating an atmosphere of pure warmth and love. As we sat there, wrapped in blankets and surrounded by the people we loved, Dad shared one of his favorite quotes: “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” That night, we all felt the deep truth of those words. That autumn retreat was more than just a family gathering; it was a time of bonding, learning, and cherishing the simple joys of life. It’s a memory that epitomizes the love, wisdom, and warmth that Dad always brought into our lives.

A Magical Week in Paris

In the summer of 2005, Dad and I took a trip to Paris that would forever be etched in my memory. It was a graduation gift, but it felt like a gift for both of us. Paris, with its art, history, and sheer beauty, was the perfect backdrop for our adventure. We spent our days exploring the Louvre, wandering through the quaint streets of Montmartre, and enjoying delicious pastries in little cafés. But the highlight of the trip was our visit to the Eiffel Tower. As we stood at the top, looking out over the city, Dad turned to me and said, “Remember this view, Michael. It’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination.” Every evening, we would sit by the Seine, watching the city lights reflect off the water. Those quiet moments of reflection and conversation are what I cherish most. Dad’s wisdom, his joy in discovery, and his love for life were palpable in every moment we shared. That week in Paris wasn’t just a trip; it was a bonding experience that deepened our relationship and left me with a heart full of memories.

Fourth of July Barbecue Bash

The Fourth of July was always a special holiday for our family, and the barbecue bash of 2010 was one of the most memorable. Our backyard was transformed into a festive gathering spot, complete with string lights, a large grill, and laughter that filled the air. Dad was in his element, flipping burgers and telling stories that had everyone in stitches. He loved bringing people together, and this barbecue was no exception. Friends, family, and neighbors all gathered to celebrate, and Dad made sure everyone felt welcome and loved. As night fell, we all sat on blankets, watching the fireworks light up the sky. Dad held my hand and said, “These moments, Lisa, these simple joys with loved ones, are what life is all about.” His words, combined with the vibrant display above, made the night magical. That Fourth of July wasn’t just a celebration of independence; it was a celebration of family, love, and togetherness. It’s a day I will always treasure, thanks to Dad’s incredible spirit and the warmth he brought into our lives.

Hiking Adventure in the Smoky Mountains

One of the best memories I have with Dad is our hiking adventure in the Smoky Mountains. It was early fall, and the leaves were just beginning to turn, creating a breathtaking mosaic of colors. We decided to tackle one of the more challenging trails, eager to immerse ourselves in nature. Dad, ever the nature enthusiast, had his trusty backpack and a map, ready for the journey. We spent hours hiking, talking about everything from the beauty of the mountains to life’s greatest mysteries. Dad had a way of making every conversation feel profound and meaningful. At one point, we reached a clearing with a panoramic view of the mountains. We sat down to rest and enjoy the view, and Dad pulled out a thermos of hot cocoa. As we sipped, he said, “Nature has a way of healing and teaching us, Karen. Always make time for it.” That moment, with the crisp air, the stunning view, and Dad’s wise words, felt like pure magic. Our hike in the Smoky Mountains wasn’t just a physical journey; it was a spiritual one. It reinforced the bond we shared and left me with a deep appreciation for the simple, beautiful moments in life. Dad’s love for nature and his profound wisdom continue to inspire me every day.

Guest Book: Share, Remember, and Connect

The Guest Book is a space dedicated to preserving the memories and sentiments of all who knew your loved one. It’s a place to share stories, offer condolences, and connect with one another in tribute to a life well-lived.

Whether you were a lifelong friend, a relative, or someone whose path briefly crossed, your memories and words add to the rich tapestry of the loved ones’ life’s story.