Family of U.S. Olympic Gymnast Dominique Dawes Mourns After Tragic Ending to Weeklong Search
Dominique Dawes is mourning the passing of her father-in-law, Leonard Hugh Thompson. After an exhaustive search, officials have confirmed that the 79-year-old’s body was found on Saturday, December 20th, in Troutville, Virginia.
The sad update from Dawes was posted on social media late Saturday night, following several other posts asking for the public’s help in looking for her father-in-law. Thompson was last seen on the night of Monday, December 15th, and his abandoned vehicle was found on December 16th while he remained a critically missing adult.
Dawes captioned the post with the heartfelt sentiment, “We take comfort in knowing that he is now with our Lord and Savior.”
The post includes a photo of proud “Papa T.” with one of Dawes’ 4 children, whom she shares with husband, Jeff Thompson. “Our last moment with him was accompanying him at mass and giving him a hug and my husband and I said, ‘Get home safely’…. Rest in Peace, Papa T,” Dawes included in the caption.
The 49 year old Olympic gold medalist shared a video earlier Saturday, pleading for the public’s help in finding her father-in-law, “He may have possibly suffered a health episode and is more than likely disoriented and confused,” she captioned the video, continuing with, “Anything you can do to share this post and help us get national exposure so that my kids can see their grandfather again.”
Condolences have poured in:
- Fellow Olympic Gymnast Dominique Moceanu offered her support: “I am so sorry to hear this, Dominique. Prayers to you all. Our family is deeply sorry for your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.”
- Another fan said, “I am so sad to hear about your loved one’s passing around Christmastime. Praying that God will comfort you and your family through this,” acknowledging the sadness surrounding such a loss at this time of year.
- Hundreds of more messages of sympathy and support have been left on Dawes’ post from friends, family, and fans.
Dawes is a three-time Olympian, competing in the 1992, 1996, and 2000 games. According to People, she is the first Black woman to earn an Olympic gold in gymnastics. She currently resides in Virginia and has opened 4 youth gymnastics facilities, with 2 more set to open in early 2026.
This story was originally published by Parade on Dec 22, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
