Married 69 years, this philanthropic couple died 8 days apart—after giving away more than $20 million from a hotel-and-property fortune

Roy Thompson, a prominent philanthropist from Queensland, Australia, passed away on August 7th, following the death of his wife, Nola Thompson, who succumbed to Stage 4 ovarian cancer eight days prior. The couple, married for 69 years, were known for their generous contributions to charity, particularly in the Sunshine Coast region.

Their combined donations exceeded $20 million. Despite their wealth, the Thompsons maintained a humble lifestyle, avoiding luxury and emphasizing the importance of giving their wealth to those who needed it. By 2018, they had already donated $15 million to the University of the Sunshine Coast, which included funding for the Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience-Thompson Institute, a mental health research center, and a scholarship and bursary program for students through 2075.

The institute also houses the Nola Thompson Centre for Advanced Imaging, a tribute to both Roy and Nola. Their philanthropic efforts extended beyond the university, with Roy establishing the Sunshine Coast Rescue Helicopter Service in 1979 and contributing $2 million towards the Wishlist Centre, affordable accommodation for patients and families near Sunshine Coast University Hospital.

In April 2021, they entrusted over $5 million to the Buderim Foundation to establish the Thompson Charitable Fund. Roy Thompson was awarded the Order of Australia for his community service. The Thompsons' philanthropy was marked by their humility, often shunning the spotlight despite their significant contributions. Roy Thompson, who grew up in a modest household, encouraged others with wealth to give generously, stating, "There are a lot of people that have a lot more money than they need and I think it’s up to them to start giving. Let’s face it, they can’t take it with them."