Roberto J.J. Thompson was born on January 12, 1980, in New York, New York; raised and educated in the Bronx. He attended DeWitt Clinton High School and later Local 12 Trade School, where he built the foundation for his career as a respected Master Mechanic with Local 12. Known to many as CAZ, Roberto was a man of passion and purpose. He was a gifted lyricist, founder of Metro Prize Fighters, and a 7th Dan in Shotokan Karate. He was also proudly inducted into the New Breed Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

Roberto found joy in life through martial arts, music, boxing, MMA, gaming, video creation, pool, and roller skating—bringing energy and dedication to everything he touched. He was faith-filled, with a deep love and unwavering faith in God, and carried himself with humor, generosity, courage, and strength.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Robert Thompson; his three aunts, Evelyn, Carmen, and Olga Velez; his uncles, Roberto Velez, Juan Velez, and Raymond Thompson; his grandparents, Eulalia and Juan Velez and Vera Thompson; along with his great-grandmother, Isabel Taylor.

He leaves behind a legacy of love in his mother, Awilda Velez; his children, Erica Thompson and Chance Thompson; his sisters, Tiffany Rivera, Rosa Harris, Christina Ortiz, and Sojurna Thompson; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends, including his instructor and mentor, Kushinda Lamar Thornton.

Though his time here was cut short, Roberto lived with intention and faith, always striving to walk in God’s grace. His spirit, laughter, and love will forever echo in the lives he touched.

If you would like to view the prayer card for Roberto J.J. Thompson, please click the link below.

Roberto J.J. Thompson Virtual Prayer Card