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Denise (Funderbuck) Thompson, age 76, of Bristol, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on September 11, 1949, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Denise was the beloved daughter of Ellaree (Garris) Funderburk and the late William Funderburk. From an early age, she carried a gentle spirit, a deep faith, and a heart that found joy in connecting with others.
Denise lived her spirituality openly and sincerely through her devoted membership at Agape Fellowship Ministries, where she formed many meaningful friendships and touched countless lives with her warmth, kindness, and quiet strength. Her faith was a guiding light, offering comfort to those around her and shaping the compassionate way she lived her life.
She had a deep love for music, which brought her peace and happiness, and she treasured time spent with her family and friends above all else. Whether sharing laughter, conversation, or simply being together, Denise found her greatest joy in the presence of those she loved.
She is survived by her son and daughter in law with whom she made her home, Dan and Preshous Thompson, III and their daughter Genevieve; her sister Louvenia Williams; a niece, Ericka McNeal-Toledo and nephews, Mike and Chad Williams and Derek McNeal. She was predeceased by her son Gerald “Skip” Thompson and her sister Renee Funderburk-McNeal.
A celebration of Denise’s life will be held on Saturday, January 24th at 3 p.m. at A&E Grier and Sons in Charlotte, North Carolina.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Denise (Funderbuck) Thompson, please visit our floral store.