By Marla Jones, Reporter • marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Rainsville resident Lelon “Doc” Thompson was recently awarded the Honorable Rotarian Award for fifty-three years of active service.

The Rotary Club meets weekly. During his first forty years of membership, Thompson had perfect attendance. He is a veterinarian, proud veteran of the Armed Services, community leader, and a faithful member of Robertson Chapel Methodist Church in Rainsville. Dr. Thompson was also a key leader in writing the animal control ordinance for the City of Rainsville.

Thompson, 93, had a veterinary practice in Texas, where he and his wife, Johnnie, were blessed with four children. Thompson returned to his hometown in 1988 after he retired.

He actually moved back into his childhood home which turned 100 years old this year.

His numerous hobbies include gardening, golf, cheering on his alma mater Auburn Tigers, and working out each morning at Body Vision. He loves to talk about his family and his heritage.

We would like to wish Dr. Thompson the best of luck in the future and a big congratulations on his award.