Demus Thompson

Demus Lee Thompson, 87, peacefully went to be with his Lord on January 26, 2025 after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia. He was surrounded by family, friends, and love during his final weeks.

Demus was a faithful Christian who served the Lord, his family, and church family. He was gentle, humble, kind, and supportive; a true friend and a true Southern Gentleman. He was loved and respected by many.

Demus was born in Burlington, NC, on January 5, 1938, where he grew up with his brothers Bryant and Keith. He had a love for sports and music. As a teenager, he worked for a local park tending the animals and driving the park train for the kids. He played football at Walter M. Williams High School. Later, he enjoyed working with teens and playing music for their entertainment.

Demus served in the U.S Air Force which included a year in Saudi Arabia. Upon his return from overseas duty, he was stationed at McCoy Air Force Base in Orlando, FL, where he met and married Carol Ann Haler. They later had a son, Michael. Demus and Carol separated and remained friendly co-parents beyond their divorce.

Demus attended and graduated from Elon University in 1964, where he met and married Ellen Burke. Upon graduation, he worked as a personnel manager for Burlington Industries. He enjoyed annual trips to his alma mater for homecoming games and festivities, where he and his beloved Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity brothers reminisced and shared many memories.

Later, Demus and Ellen moved to Morehead City. Demus and his brother Keith owned and operated a seafood business in Atlantic Beach. He later joined Ellen in the operation of their real estate business in Atlantic Beach for 35 years. Demus served on the City Council of Morehead City for 20 consecutive years. Upon his retirement in 2017, he received the NC Loyal Order of the Longleaf Pine award. He served as a Rotarian for many years.

Demus was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Morehead City, where he met his wife, Carolyn, in a Bible Study Class. He served on various committees at First Baptist Church for many years. He taught Sunday school and served as a trustee, Deacon, and Diaconate Chairman. He was a faithful member of the Lighthouse Sunday School Class and later joined his wife, Carolyn, as a member of the Faith and Fellowship Sunday School Class.

Demus is survived by his wife of 9 years, Carolyn, a son, Michael Heisey (Christine), a brother, Bryant Thompson, step-daughter Melanie Holt (William), and step-son Michael Braddy, grandchildren: Jamie East (Adam), Michael Heisey Jr. (Caitlin), Julia Heisey; great grandchildren: Bayleigh, Charlie Kate, and Cash, great-great grandson, Cohen. Step-grandchildren, Haley (Jose’), Olivia, Charlie, Tia, and Gage, sister-in-law Linda Thompson, and brother-in-law Dennis Burke. He is also survived by several beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and his faithful canine companion Sam.

He was predeceased by his former wife, Ellen, parents Robert Thompson and Ilver Foster, and brother Keith Thompson.

The family extends great appreciation to Carteret Home Health and Hospice Maxim Healthcare Services, and his loving caregivers Arlene, Cathy, Cindy, and Susan.

A private graveside service for the family will be held in Burlington, NC.

A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church in Morehead City, NC on Saturday, February 8th, at 1:30 PM with Pastor Nate Leonard presiding.

Flowers are welcome, or donations in Demus’ memory can be made to First Baptist Church Benevolence Fund, 810 Bridges St., Morehead City, NC 28557

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net

 Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.