Rufus Thompson, 89, of Beaumont, passed away January 1, 2012. His body will lie in state Friday, January 6, 2012 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Claybar Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home. A service celebrating his life will be Saturday, January 7, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Beaumont. A time of visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 preceding the service also at the church.

Rufus is survive by his daughters, Kathy Thompson and Rochelle Sabir; step-son Tyrone Thompson; grandchildren Erika Pentecost, Shantel Tolentino and Martel Johnson; and one great-granddaughter.

He was a Veteran of the United States Army and will receive full military honors at the graveside service will be held at Live Oak Memorial Cemetery immediately following the church service.