Wayne Chittick Thompson

Wayne Chittick Thompson, 86, of Colonial Heights, passed away peacefully with his family on February 13, 2023. Wayne was born to the late Waldo and Helen Olafson Thompson, on June 5, 1936, in West Palm Beach, FL. He graduated from Palm Beach High School and continued to college, first getting a bachelor's degree and then a master's degree in psychology from Florida State University. He then later completed another master's degree on his way to receiving his doctorate from Yeshiva University in New York. He worked nearly his entire career for the Commonwealth of Virginia, first as a trainer/educator in behavioral health centers and later as a psychologist in the correctional system. He also taught psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University and Virginia State University, and spent time during the Dalton administration working in the state developmental disability office. Wayne is survived by his wife of 53 years, Heath Thompson; a daughter, Helen Mosher and husband, Dean, of Annandale, VA; a son, Richard Thompson and wife, Katie, of Richmond, VA; and three grandchildren, Kieran, Jesse, and Ellie. Wayne was known and beloved for his kindness and sense of humor. He was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, where he had served on the vestry and as a fixture as the regular Sunday greeter. He had cerebral palsy and accomplished all of the great things in his life without being able to write, as he would proudly tell you. He inspired countless people through his experiences as a varsity gymnast in college, his teaching and training, and his commitment to faith. He loved classical and choral music and adored his family, and his greatest joy in life was making people laugh. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his memorial service on Saturday, February 18, 2023, 2 p.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 110 N. Union St., Petersburg, VA 23803. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Thompson Organ Fund, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, PO Box 564, Petersburg, VA 23804. The family is being served by the Petersburg Chapel of J. T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com .