Mack Thompson

Mack Edward Thompson, 69, of Ash Flat, Arkansas passed away at his home. He was born in Little Rock, Arkansas and graduated from high school in Paragould, Arkansas. His working career spanned 41 years as an Arkansas State Trooper reaching the rank of sergeant and achieving status as a Swat sniper. He also worked with the Criminal Investigation Division and most recently had been teaching new recruits the history of ASP. Mack's hobbies included serious birdwatching and deer hunting. He was an AVID fan of the Arkansas State University Red Wolves and the Highland High School Rebels. He was an active member of the Ash Flat United Methodist Church where he served as Lay Leader/Speaker. Mack was intrigued with his Bible studies and was always ready to engage in discussion and explore the scriptures. He will also be long remembered for always having a story to tell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mack and Allean (Lively) Thompson, and a brother, Richard.

Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Ella Van (Hyslip) Thompson; daughters, Amy (Tommy) Trivitt of Ash Flat and Kris Thompson of Paragould; goddaughter, Ashley Witt Shelton (Bryan) of DeQueen, Arkansas; a son, John (Toni) Thompson of Paragould; granddaughters, Rachel (Tyler) Self and Rylie Trivitt (Jacob Jones); great-grandchildren, Nolan and Blair Self; brother-in-law, Johnny Ray Hyslip with his wife Barbara, and their sons, Jason (his children: Emma (Eli), Owen, & Hayden) and Grant with his wife Kristen (their sons, Trace & Reid); other relatives and a multitude of great friends.

Visitation of family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 2026 in the chapel of Tri-County Funeral Home, 1540 Hwy. 62/412, Highland, AR 72542. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Johnny and Ross Carter officiating. Burial will be in Wiles Cemetery at Ash Flat.

Pallbearers will be Stan Witt, Robert Speer, Todd Shaw, Mike Davidson, Phillip Pickett, Joe Bradshaw, and JR Hankins.

Honorary Pallbearers include the Arkansas State Police Swat Team and Arkansas State Police Retirees.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are encouraged to Ash Flat United Methodist Church or a charity of the donor's choice.