Family of U.S. Olympic Gymnast Dominique Dawes Mourns After Tragic Ending to Weeklong Search
Dominique Dawes mourning the death of his father-in-law Leonard Hugh Thompson. After an extensive search, authorities confirmed that the 79-year-old man’s body was found in Troutville, Virginia, on Saturday, December 20.
Dawes’ sad news was posted on social media late Saturday night, following several other posts asking for the public’s help in searching for his father-in-law. Thompson was last seen on Monday night, December 15th, and her abandoned vehicle was found on December 16th as a critically missing adult.
Dawes added a caption to the post with the heartfelt sentiment: “We take comfort in knowing that she is now with our Lord and Savior.”
The post includes a photo of a proud “Papa T.” One of the four children Dawes shares with her husband Jeff Thompson. Dawes added in her caption: “Our last moment with him was accompanying him to the service and hugging him and my husband and I said, ‘Come home safe’…Rest in peace, Daddy T.”
49-year-old Olympic gold medalist We shared a video early on Saturday, Pleading for the public’s help in finding her father-in-law, she captioned the video, “He may have possibly had a health crisis and is most likely disoriented and disoriented,” and continued, “Sharing this post and anything you can do to help us get national exposure so my kids can see them.” grandfather Again.”
Condolences poured in:
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Olympic Gymnast Dominique Moceanu He offered his support: “I’m so sorry to hear this, Dominique. I’m praying for you all. Our family is so sorry for your loss. We’re keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.”
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“I’m so sorry to hear that your loved one has passed away,” another fan said. christmas time. “I pray that God will comfort you and your family during this time,” he said, acknowledging the sadness of such a loss at this time of year.
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Hundreds more messages of sympathy and support were left on Dawes’ post from friends, family and fans.
dawes a three-time Olympian, He competed in the 1992, 1996 and 2000 games. Accordingly People, she is the first Black woman to win Olympic gold in gymnastics. He currently lives in Virginia and has opened 4 youth gyms with 2 more set to open in early 2026.
This story was first published by . Parade First appeared on December 22, 2025 News section. Add Parade as follows: Preferred Source by clicking here.
