Barry B. Thompson was known for more than just having the Tarleton State University campus student center named after him. Thompson, who passed away on March 2, 2014 at the age of 77, had dedicated his life to education.

Thompson was first named Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System in 1994. He served as Chancellor until his 1999 retirement, when the Board of Regents named him Chancellor Emeritus.

Thompson had served as the president of Tarleton for eight years (1982-1990) before moving to West Texas A&M University to serve as president for four years (1990-1994).

Thompson’s eight years at Tarleton were dubbed one of the most expansive times in university history. Thompson aided in the acquirement of over four million dollars in school funding. During his time here, the enrollment increased to more than 6,000 students. Thompson would personally visit schools beyond the range of Tarleton to recruit more minorities.

Thompson made an impact on Texan history and will be missed dearly.

The memorial service for Thompson will be held Sunday, March 9 at 2 p.m. in the Clyde H. Wells Fine Arts Center Auditorium. A reception will follow in the Barry B. Thompson Student Center Ballrooms until 5 p.m.