Thompson, Stephen's Obituary
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Born on February 15, 1960, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Stephen was
the youngest of five children born to Bettie and Robert E. Thompson.
Growing up in a lively household, Mike, as he was affectionately called
by his family, was surrounded by the love and support of his siblings:
Bobbette, Michelle, Robert II, and Dawn. He attended schools in the
Pittsburgh Public School system and graduated from Langley High
School in 1978.
MUSICAL TALENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
From a young age, Stephen displayed remarkable musical talent. He
played both the vibraphone and piano, always eager to take on new
challenges. During high school, a friend invited him to perform in a
school musical, and after just a few rehearsals, their performance was
met with enthusiasm from classmates.
Stephen’s passion for music led him to audition for the Ozanam
Strings, an all-Black youth orchestra comprised of Pittsburgh’s most
talented young musicians. He excelled, playing a wide range of genres
including jazz, rock, and rhythm & blues. One of the highlights of his
musical journey was performing with jazz legend Stanley Turrentine
at Heinz Hall, playing selections from Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Gratitude”
live album. The orchestra’s travels took them to Chicago, where they
performed at universities and high schools and had the unique
opportunity to visit Johnson Publishing Company, meeting the
founders of Ebony and Jet Magazine. The Ozanam Strings visited New
York, New Orleans, Canada, and Chicago. They recorded two albums
and made regular appearances at Heinz Hall and Carnegie Music Hall,
as well as at The Three Rivers Art Festival in Pittsburgh. In 1975, they
appeared on episode 1401 of Mister Roger’s Neighborhood. In 1979,
they played at the Pittsburgh Man of the Year celebration for Willie
Stargell of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
PROFESSIONAL LIFE
After high school, Stephen attended Point Park College at night,
studying journalism. His career was as diverse as his interests. He
worked at Rohrich Cadillac selling automobiles, and at Warner Cable
Company. On Saturday mornings, he could be found at WDUQ
(Duquesne University’s radio station) or WYEP public radio, sharing his
favorite jazz tunes with listeners.
THE RADIO MAN
Stephen truly found his calling in media Radio sales. His infectious
personality and genuine curiosity about people made him a natural
in the field. He managed advertising sales teams in Texas for the
Walt Disney Company – ABC Radio Networks as Vice President of
Affiliate Sales & Marketing; Westwood One/Shadow Broadcasting
as a General Manager and General Sales Manager and the Bay Area
where he worked at KDIA-AM as a General Manager and a General
Sales Manager, Infinity Broadcasting - KOME-FM as a General Sales
Manager and Infinity Broadcasting as a KROQ-FM Account Executive.
PERSONAL PASSIONS
Beyond his professional achievements, Stephen was a lover of good
food and wine. He worked for an online wine distributor, developing
a refined palate and deep knowledge of wines. In the kitchen, he was
a gourmet chef, known for his creativity and skill—never relying on
cookbooks, but always crafting delicious meals from scratch.
LEGACY
Stephen’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved
him. He passed away with his two loves by his side, Arlene Branch and
their daughter, Monet Isabella Thompson. He also leaves to celebrate
his memory, his siblings, Bobbette Thompson, Michelle Bolton, Robert
Thompson II, and Dawn Iles; as well as his nephews, niece, and a
wide circle of friends. Stephen Michael Thompson’s life was marked
by courage, grace, and a generous spirit. His music, laughter, and
kindness will be cherished and remembered always.
What’s your fondest memory of Stephen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Stephen?
Share a story where Stephen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Stephen you’ll never forget.
How did Stephen make you smile?