A tribute to Jackie Thompson 550A-5T-C-P
By Susie A. Wolfe
Jackie Thompson, a well-known Rankin County businessman and host of the 1970s “Hour of the Fifties” television show passed away at 82 on April 14. Thompson grew up near Pelahatchie at Lodebar and got his start in business here. In an article written in 2018, Editor Susie Wolfe featured Thompson reminiscing about how much he loved Pelahatchie and its folks. He started selling records in Pat Summers’ Western Auto in 1954 and perfected his pantomime act at the Pelahatchie Theater. Even then, he was raising money for children’s needs. He said of Pelahatchie, “I had a lot of fun there.” After posting about his death on the Pelahatchie News Facebook page, there was a huge response from those who knew him growing up and for his love of 50s music and in particular, Elvis Presley. Here are some of the comments posted: WLBT-TV: Jackie Thompson was a big fan of 1950′s music and hosted a weekend television show in the 1970′s called The Hour of the 50′s. The Pelahatchie native was also a businessman who opened Eastland Plaza Homes in 1965 with a partner and started a Pearl Christmas parade. In 2018, Thompson, who lived in Pearl, was awarded the Pearl Chamber of Commerce President’s Distinguished Service Award. Jackie Thompson was 82 years old.PEARL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: Jackie Thompson was presented with the "President's Distinguished Service Award" by past Chamber President Ron Morgan in February 2018. Jackie was a pillar of our community and was loved by everyone that knew him. He and Elvis are singing and dancing for Jesus in Heaven today.
MARSHA WALTERS: In memory of my sweetheart, soulmate and bestest friend?, Jackie Thompson.
I can honestly say that I never knew another man that gave of himself to help others like Jackie did and expected nothing in return.
Mr. Nostalgia, Mr. Hour of the 50’s, King of Pearl, Mr. Rock n Roll, Mr. Eastland Plaza Homes, but I knew him best as “my sweetheart.”
In lieu of flowers, you may give in Jackie’s memory to:
Brandon Baptist Church Building Fund
100 Brandon Baptist Church
Brandon, MS. 39042
Glenda McKay: Yes, he came on Saturday around or after noon, Johnny Jolly & Jackie Thompson! Watched every chance I got!
Peggy Busby: Great guy, always made his rounds as Santa Claus throwing out candy throughout the neighborhoods every year for Christmas, the kids I always look forward to this!
Ilene Jones: Such a nice man. I missed going to the show. A few years ago I was over at his house and boy did he show off his Elvis items. He loved his collections.
Chris Adcock: He was born in a tiny one-bedroom home in Sardis Community in Smith County before his family moved to Pelahatchie.
Verne Harris: He's talking to Elvis right now, don't you know.
Kim Sanford Haggerty: My mother, sister and I use to dance on the show... Such a sweet man..
Iris McKay Purvis: Jackie lived next door to my husband in Pelahatchie while we were all growing up. We went all through high school together. Lots of fond memories. Rocking Satellites, Record Shop in Mr Pat’s Western Auto, Basketball games and so many many more. We even bought a house from him in ‘63. It was a great ride Jackie; we’ll miss you!!
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