The Fayetteville, North Carolina, community is mourning the untimely death of beloved native and wrestling standout, Gatlan Thompson.
Gatlan Thompson passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at an untimely age of 21; however, the details surrounding his untimely death have not been disclosed by the family.
Born in May 2004 as the eldest son of Keeley and Josh Thompson, Gatlan Thompson was a cherished member of the Fayetteville sports community and touched the lives of many with his kind and humorous nature.
Beginning his athletic journey from a very young age, Gatlan Thompson excelled in wrestling at Cape Fear High School, from which he graduated in 2023.
Competing in multiple weight classes throughout his career, including 140, 160, 170, and 182 pounds, Gatlan demonstrated dedication and sportsmanship from a young age.
He competed in numerous tournaments, including the NCHSAA State Championships, NCWAY State Championships, Holy Angels Invitational, Dixie Nationals, America Crown, and many more.
Notably, Gatlan placed in the top four at several major competitions, such as finishing 4th at the NCWAY State Championships in 2022 and taking 1st at the 2021 Beach Brawl.
Beyond his results, Gatlan’s love for wrestling was evident in his commitment to both local and national competitions. He competed against some of the region’s best young athletes and represented his school and community with pride.
Social Media is Filled With Heartfelt Tributes To Late Gatlan Thompson
The untimely death of Gatlan Thompson has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.
Many of his loved ones are paying tribute to Gatlan on social media and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
One wrote:
“Today our hearts are shattered. We lost our nephew, and the pain feels unbearable. 💔
Alyssa Jackson
He was truly one of a kind. He was always smiling, always spreading joy wherever he went. He had the kind of happiness that lit up a room and made everyone around him feel seen and loved. He never missed a birthday text, never forgot the little things, and always showed up with kindness and love. That was just who he was, such a beautiful soul with a heart so full. We were beyond blessed to have him in our lives, and we will carry his love with us forever.
Gatlan, you will forever be a part of us. I don’t think I’ll ever have the words to really explain how much you meant to me. The pain of loosing you feels unbearable, our hearts ache! We love you beyond words and will miss you every single day. 😭💔
Rest easy, sweet boy. You will never be forgotten. I love you forever !!”
In addition to being an amazing athlete, Gatlan Thompson was a loving son to his parents, Keeley and Josh, and a great big brother to his younger siblings, Nadia, Ashlin, Blayden, and Malani.
His parents expressed their sorrow on social media and requested people not to repost the fake obituary, as the family hasn’t yet posted any official obituary.
Gatlan’s mother, Keeley, also shared a heartfelt post on Facebook and wrote:
“Gatlan Thompson . Mommy loves you and will think of you everyday. This has broken my heart my baby boy 💔”
Keeley N Steven
Similarly, Gatlan’s siblings also took to their social media to pay tribute to their elder brother and recall his memories.
His sister Nadia shared a beautiful post on Instagram featuring several pictures of late Gatlan Thompson and wrote:
“Heaven gained an angel yesterday, Gatlan you were the best big brother I could ever ask for and truly a light to everyone around you. Hold onto your loved ones and cherish every moment. Until we meet again, I know you’ll always be watching over us. I love you.”
Nadia Thompson
Ashlin also shared a heartfelt post on social media expressing her love for her elder brother and wrote:
“To my dear brother, I’ll always cherish the late-night calls we used to have. I’ll miss your sudden bursts into my room, making me laugh so hard that I felt like I was about to faint. In reality, I’ll miss you in general. I love you forever. Until we meet again, please say hi to my Mom for me! You’ll always be my funny older brother 🤍”
actually_ashlinpaige
Likewise, Gatlan’s younger brother, Blayden, who is also an exceptional wrestler, recalled Gatlan as the best brother he could ever ask for.
Gatlan Thompson also leaves behind his stepmother, Jenn Thompson, stepfather, Steven, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and his loving girlfriend, Gabby West.
Gatlan’s contribution to the Fayetteville community as an amazing wrestler and his kind nature will always be remembered. His family will soon provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
