CAMBRIDGE - Althonder James Thompson departed to his eternal rest on Sunday, Aug. 14, 2011, at Mallard Bay Nursing Home in Cambridge. Born April 23, 1936, he was the son of the late Annie Stanley Thompson and Fulton Thompson and the step son of the late Mildred Thompson Williams. Due to the early death of his mother, he was raised by his grandparents the late Ollie Thompson Molock and Louis H. Thompson and his step grandfather the late Elva (Mannie) Molock. He attended the public school of Dorchester County and graduated in 1954 from the Maces Lane High School. Althonder enjoyed his classmates and always looked forward to attending the class reunions. At an early age, he was employed by Sears and retired after 37 successful years. "Thonder" as he was often called was afforded the opportunity to pursue his love for travel with his wife. Before his illness slowed him down, Althonder and Mary traveled to many cities across the country enjoying their free-time together. Althonder was a faithful member of Waugh Chapel United Methodist Church. He love the Lord and loved serving God's people. He was one of the original members of the Waugh Gospel Choir and remained a faithful member for over 40 years. He also served on the Trustee Board for 12 years. After he became ill, he was voted as an Honorary Trustee member. He was a faithful serving member of the Usher Board and served as president for 23 years. He was also a member of the Men's Choir and the Methodist Men. He worked with the Hot Meals Ministry and faithfully attended the weekly Men's Community Prayer Breakfast. Althonder was a member of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge, Pride of Cambridge #50 and the Royal Arch Masonry. Althonder met and married his wife Mary McEachin on Sept. 12, 1964. This couple was blessed to meet after a Sunday Service at Waugh Church. God allowed them to share a special love for 44 years. From this union, two children were born. One thing everyone knew about Thonder was that he loved his family and that he would go an extra mile to help a friend or stranger in need. He had a big heart to give to others. His memory will be cherished by his wife, Mary of 44 years; daughter, the Reverend Avonda Javene Thompson (Glen Burnie); son, Althonder (Al) James Thompson II and his children, Nina, Brent and Leah Thompson (all of Eriel, N.J.); sisters, Anna Mae Ferguson (Thomas Sr.), Cambridge, Dorothy Mae Stewart (Houston, Texas); and an aunt who was like a sister, Lorraine T. Henry (Cambridge); an uncle, Philip Thompson; a great aunt, the Reverend Hazel Molock (Cambridge); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Services will be 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011, at Waugh Chapel UM Church, 425 High St., Cambridge, with a viewing one hour prior to the services and 6 to 8 p.m., today, at the church. Interment in the church cemetery. Condolences sent to www.henryfuneralhomepa.com.