Obituary of Marshall Thompson

Edward Marshall Thompson, age 77, passed away February 3, 2023. Tinkerer, potter, poet, banjo player, porch conversationalist, philosopher, proud father, and humorist, he never met a garden or rock that didn't inspire him or a person that didn't interest him. Marshall saw what was real in each and every one of us. Known for his quick wit and unforgettable one-liners, Marshall was a reassuring and open door for anyone who found themselves in his generous presence. In his own way he touched the lives of many in his community and a plethora of kindred spirits he found along the way, he left an impression that will never be forgotten. Marshall was constantly challenging norms around Frankfort with an inquisitive and broad worldview. He was a resourceful and gifted dreamer, an avid collector of anything that might be useful on another day, he was creative and ingenious in his own particular way. A graduate of Franklin County High School, a member of the United States Marine Corp during the Vietnam war, Marshall went on to graduate from Hastings college with a degree in literature. Upon his return home to Kentucky, Marshall headed to Monterey where he joined a collection of artists and dreamers, quilt-makers, potters, candlestick makers, musicians, poets, and hand-press publishers, a community he helped build and hold together for a lifetime. He is survived by the love of his life Mary Payne Coblin and her children, Price (Emily) and Laura Lindsay (Kingsley), his five sons Clay (Kim), Raymond (Bridgette), Karl (Kaley), Chad (Kristin), Benjamin (Jessica) and grandchildren Zachary, Kingsley, Kate, Tallulah, Aubrey, Sadie, Fisher, Will, Addie, Alice, Marina, Eli, Emily, Krosby, Griffin, and River, along with the countless people he adopted along the way. Preceding him in death are his parents Cornelia and Edward, his sister Kay, and his daughter Kate Willow Thompson. There will be a celebration of his life in the coming spring/summer.