Dr. Ben Valtious Thompson

Dr. Ben Valtious Thompson, PhD, age 63, of Wakefield, passed away peacefully at his residence on December 29, 2025.

Born in Jamaica on January 4, 1962, he was the son of the late Donald Thompson and Edna Nivens. Dr. Thompson was raised in Jamaica and later immigrated to the United States in adulthood, carrying with him a deep reverence for education, service, and personal growth.

A lifelong scholar, Dr. Thompson pursued learning with remarkable dedication. He earned a degree in agriculture, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, completed advanced graduate studies in computer science, obtained a master’s degree in public health, and ultimately earned a PhD in epidemiology.

Guided by his passion for knowledge and service, Dr. Thompson cultivated a diverse and meaningful professional life. His career spanned work as a horticulturist, honorable service in the United States Navy, roles as a professor and consultant, and, most notably, a deeply fulfilling vocation as a mental health therapist, through which he devoted himself to the care and well-being of others.

Beyond his many academic and professional accomplishments, Dr. Thompson’s greatest joy was found at home. He treasured time spent with his wife and daughter above all else, and his love for them remained the enduring center of his life.

He was the beloved husband of Sheryl Thompson and the devoted father of Brittany Thompson. He is also lovingly remembered by his brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, and cousins.

A Funeral Service will be held at McDonald Funeral Home, 19 Yale Avenue, Wakefield, on Friday, January 9, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation for relatives and friends will take place prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in honor of Dr. Thompson to support scholarship funds through the Alumni Association of Knockalva Polytechnic College and the College of Agriculture, Science, and Education in Hanover, Jamaica, where he was a proud alumnus.

https://knockalvaiaa.com/contribution/