Bradley John Thompson

March 30, 1951 - January 30, 2026

Santa Fe, NM

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Brad Thompson of Santa Fe, New Mexico from MS on January 30, 2026. Brad, born in Minneapolis, MN, lived life on his own terms, never mainstream, never ordinary. He was the president of a homesteader organization in Minneapolis, restoring a 1907 house won in a $1 lottery to its original 1900s style. He collected antique cars, enjoyed the culinary arts, and was an incredibly talented artist who found his place when he moved to Santa Fe, NM in 2000.

Brad had a heart of gold and dedicated his life to the service of children’s mental health. In 1974 he established the first federally funded residential treatment center for adolescents and later held positions in the behavioral health and medical fields in Minnesota, Texas, and New Mexico. A staff member wrote: “Without a doubt, you are the most inspirational leader that I have known.”

Brad’s community affiliations included President of the Board for the Victims Assistance Center in Houston, Guest Instructor for the Houston Police/Fire Departments, and Member of the NM Coalition for Advocacy for the Mentally Ill. He was recognized by the Embassy of the United States for his assistance with the FBI involving adolescent kidnap victims in El Salvador.

Brad is survived by his best friend and wife of 36 years, Cheryl; his loving daughter Rosamond (Roz) Thompson who was his greatest joy; grandchildren Madeline (Maddie) and Jack Parker; sisters Lorie Vaughan, Colleen (Tom) Schreiber, Vicki Schommer, and many nieces and nephews.

Brad’s presence will be greatly missed; his family will forever carry his stories and laughter. His family expresses gratitude to Casa de Paz Assisted Living Center and to Roadrunner Hospice as well as to many friends for their love and support.