Monsignor Edward J Thompson, 92, of St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Altamonte Springs passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 11. Monsignor Thompson (Father Ed, as he was affectionately called) was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia and was ordained at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral on May 19, 1951.
His priestly responsibilities included that of vocations director, high school teacher, hospital chaplain and pastor in the (arch)dioceses of Philadelphia and Reno-Las Vegas before retiring in 1991. In 1993, he was incardinated into the Diocese of Orlando by Bishop Norbert Dorsey, where he served nonstop at St. Mary Magdalen Parish.
Father Ed had a deep love for the Catholic faith and his greatest joy was to be a priest. He devoted his time to hearing confessions, leading parish retreats and prayer services, and hosting sessions to deepen the understanding of the faith. He was engaged in several ministries, including Knights of Columbus, Altar Servers and Scripture Class. But the highlight of his life was saying Mass, which he once described as the 'greatest privilege' on the face of the earth.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth (John) Hutton and his twin brother, Most Reverend David B. Thompson. He is survived by nieces, nephews and numerous great nephews and nieces.
Funeral arrangements, all held at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church at 861 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs