Cecil Ray Thompson

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Cecil Ray “CT” Thompson was born on July 22, 1960, in Casa Grande, Arizona, to AZ and Barbara Thompson. As the firstborn child of AZ and Barbara, Cecil held a special place in the hearts of his family from the very beginning.

As an infant, Cecil moved with his parents to South Phoenix, Arizona, where he spent his childhood alongside his brothers and sisters. He attended Sierra Vista Elementary School before continuing his education at South Mountain High School. Cecil attended Phoenix College and completed his general education coursework.

Cecil began his career in the restaurant industry at Smitty’s Restaurant, where he started as a dishwasher. Through dedication, hard work, and perseverance, he advanced to the position of cook and eventually became a restaurant manager, proudly following in his father’s footsteps. Cecil remained with Smitty’s until the company closed in 1997.

After Smitty’s, Cecil joined his father at the family-owned restaurant and bar, Zee’s, located on Central Avenue, where they worked side by side until the business closed. Throughout his career, Cecil continued to excel in restaurant management, earning the respect of colleagues and customers alike. His final professional role was managing several Denny’s restaurants throughout the Valley, where he remained dedicated to his work until God called him home.

Outside of his career, Cecil enjoyed spending time on the golf course with his father, AZ, his brother Tommy, and his longtime friend John. Golf brought him great joy and created many cherished memories with those he loved. He was also a proud member of the American Legion, where he generously donated his time and culinary talents to support community events and programs for local youth. Serving others was a reflection of his kind heart and commitment to giving back.

Cecil was preceded in death by his son, Courtney Hall (Thompson), and his brothers, Tony Thompson, AZ “Bibo” Thompson Jr., and Elma “Beaver” Thompson and sisters, Janet Thompson, and Sandra Thompson.

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his parents, AZ and Barbara Thompson; his children, Cecil Thompson Jr. (Jovanny) and Mercer Thompson; his sister, Beverly Thompson; his brothers, Tommy Thompson, Bobby Sharpe (Bridgette), and Ron Phillips; his aunt, Diane Campbell. He is also survived by a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were touched by his warmth, generosity, and unwavering love.

Cecil’s legacy of hard work, service, family devotion, and friendship will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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