Robert "Bobby" Lee Thompson, Jr.

Robert “Bobby” L. Thompson Jr., age 58, of Grove City, Ohio, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at 8:41 a.m. at The James Cancer Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Bobby was born on March 12, 1967, in Columbus, Ohio, to Robert Lee Thompson Sr. and Marlena Gay Boyles (Hallis). He grew up in Columbus and graduated from Marion-Franklin High School.

Bobby dedicated his life to public service through a distinguished career with the Ohio State Highway Patrol. He joined the Patrol in October 1993 as a Police Officer 1 assigned to the Alum Creek Facility and was promoted to Police Officer 2 in October 1994. Over 31 years of honorable service, he served at the Governor’s Residence Detail, the Ohio Statehouse, the Operations Hilltop Facility, the Alum Creek Facility, and Security Services. Known for his professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to duty, Bobby earned the respect of colleagues and the community alike. At his retirement ceremony on December 16, 2024, he was recognized for completing more overtime special-duty service than any officer in Patrol history. Among his favorite assignments was working the Ohio State Fair each year at the Columbus fairgrounds.

Following retirement, Bobby continued serving others through his work with the federal court system until illness prevented him from continuing.

Outside of his career, Bobby lived life with enthusiasm and energy. A devoted son, brother, father, and friend, he was known for his humor, strength, and ability to make others laugh even during difficult times. He cherished being surrounded by family and friends and was always ready to enjoy life and create lasting memories.

Bobby earned a karate black belt as a youth and continued practicing martial arts throughout his life, including taekwondo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He was also a licensed real estate agent and real estate investor in Central Ohio from 2009 until his passing. A lifelong fitness enthusiast, he spent much of his free time strength training and could often be found at the gym.

He loved travel, new experiences, and outdoor adventure, including skydiving, rock climbing, boating, motorcycling, and hiking. A passionate fan of live music, Bobby attended countless concerts throughout his lifetime — possibly nearing one thousand shows.

He is survived by his daughter, Dani Anne Lambert; his mother, Marlena Gay Boyles; his sister, Theresa Renee (Douglas) Nicholson; his nephews, Chrystopher Charles (Kaley) Nicholson and Dusttin Stephen (Jennifer) Nicholson; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, great nephews and nieces, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Lee Thompson Sr., and his stepfather, Thomas Malcolm Boyles.

Visitation will be held at:
Newcomer Funeral Home
3393 Broadway
Grove City, Ohio 43123
on March 22, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Funeral service will be held at:
The Grove City Nazarene Church
4770 Hoover Road
Grove City, Ohio 43123
on March 23, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.

A procession will follow to St. Joseph Cemetery in Columbus, Ohio, where Ohio State Highway Patrol honors will be conducted, including an honor guard and flag presentation. Following will be lunch at The Grove City Nazarene Church 4770 Hoover Road.

Bobby will be deeply missed and forever loved. His service, sacrifice, and devotion to both his family and his community will never be forgotten.