Frederic Christian Thompson

Dr. Thompson had a distinguished career as a scientist, educator, and philanthropist. His life was fulfilling both professionally and personally, and he leaves a legacy supporting many organizations that impacted his life work, such as establishing dedicated endowments for both the Smithsonian and the Smithsonian Libraries.

After receiving a B.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, he served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, stationed at the First Army Medical Laboratory, Fort Meade, MD. After leaving the Army, he accepted a post-doctoral fellowship at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, NY. He then joined the USDA Systematic Entomology Laboratory located at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C., where he served as Curator of Insects (Syrphidae) for 37 years. After retiring, he became a Smithsonian Research Associate, continuing his life work and maintaining his office at the museum.

Dr. Thompson authored over 140 scientific publications, and was one of 25 specialists from around the world elected to serve on the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. He described 28 genera and 150 species of flower flies. His research focus was on systematics, zoogeography, and biodiversity.

Born April 24, 1944 in Boston, MA to parents Paul Thompson and Elinor Bunn Thompson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty, and world travel companion of 49 years. His brother, Mr. Paul Brooks Thompson of New Smyrna Beach, FL, and sister, Dr. Tracy Thompson of Berkeley, CA, along with numerous nephews and nieces.

Neptune Society of Jacksonville, Florida has served the family.