Robert Joseph Thompson, lovingly known as Robby, aged 61, of Salinas, California, passed away on January 12, 2026. He was born on August 23, 1964 in Maricopa County, Arizona and moved to Salinas with his family the next year where he spent the remainder of his life. Robby was the youngest child of Leon Thompson and Jean (Copeland) Thompson. He attended Los Padres elementary school, El Sausal Junior High, and Alisal High School. For those who took time to really know him, Robby was loving, giving, loyal, kind, and humorous. He had an intense passion for music, and he was incredibly talented. Robby was a legend in the music scene in the Salinas Valley and beyond. He was known for his incredible musical talent as well as his charismatic stage presence. He started playing music as early as 8 years old and his first public appearance was with his family’s band, the Thompson Family Band, which included himself, his brother, his two sisters, and his dad. He played at the Sundowner for the first time at 13 years old and continue playing in public and private appearances up to the time of his death. He played with many local bands, including High Country, Dealers Choice, the McGuffie Road band, and he also opened for John Anderson at the posse grounds in Salinas as well as playing for other well known musicians. He is survived by his son, Christopher Thompson, of Nashville, TN, and his grandchildren, Aurora and Finley Thompson, also of Nashville, his father, Leon Thompson, of Salinas, his brother, AL Thompson of San Luis Obispo, CA, and his sister, Sonja Thompson, of Hemet, CA, as well as his best friend for many years, Karen Proctor, and also numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Jean (Copeland) Thompson, his sister, Ronda Thompson, and his niece, Shian Stockam. A celebration of Robby‘s life will be held for family and close friends at a later date, hosted by Ryan Roche. Donations for flowers can be made to Swenson and Silacci. To honor Robby, please email any pictures or videos you may have of him, along with any stories, memories or thoughts, to [email protected].