Organist Linda Thompson
Linda Thompson is one of several musicians who provide families with the beautiful music during services at Chattanooga Funeral Home chapels. Ms. Thompson is completing 38 years and says it’s been more of a ministry than a job.
The Shelbyville, Tn., native began taking lessons when she was eight and music has been a major part of her life.
The accomplished musician became interested in playing for funeral services when asked to substitute for the regular organist. “I just loved it, fell in love with the people and eventually joined the CFH team,” she said.
CFH President Gene Pike said, “Linda has been a dedicated, faithful employee and extremely kind to our families. Music is an integral part of honoring the life of person who has passed and we are very proud of Linda’s contribution in helping comfort those who are grieving.”
Mr. Pike praised Ms. Thompson for her many years of service not only at the funeral home but in the Chattanooga community.
Ms. Thompson is the president of the MacDowell Music Club, serves on the Chattanooga Choral Arts board of directors, past president of the Chattanooga Music Club, and is past president of the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Youth Orchestra.
She is a charter member and former president of the Chattanooga Performing Arts League. “I’m very proud that over the past 10 years we’ve been able to provide over $100,000 in scholarships and grants to aspiring musicians,” she said. Ms. Thompson is currently the league’s vice president. The awards are presented annually.
She has served as the Silverdale Cumberland Presbyterian Church organist since the mid 80s and was honored in 2012 with the Chattanooga Woman of the Year distinction.
Ms. Thompson said, “I enjoy playing all the services; a few of our families favorite songs are, It is well with my soul, Amazing Grace, Great is thy Faithfulness, Sweet Beulah Land, and I’ll Fly Away. I’m especially honored to play the patriotic selections; it’s the last thing I can do for veterans of our country.”
Ms. Thompson was married to the late Robert “Bob” Thompson for 52 years and the couple shared the same musical interest.
Ms. Thompson said, “Music has been and is still a big part of my life. As long as I’m healthy, I plan to continue serving the Lord by using my skills to help comfort those who are going thru the most difficult days of their life.”