Luke Thompson’s Family and Friends Gather in Maryborough to Honor His Young Life

 The family, friends and loved ones of Luke Arthur Thompson, affectionately known as “Lukey Dukey,” are mourning the unexpected death of the beloved 12-year-old from Bidwill, Queensland. Luke passed away on September 6, 2026, leaving parents, siblings, grandparents, relatives and friends facing an immense loss. His death has brought profound sadness to everyone who shared a connection with him, while the memories of his life now provide an important source of comfort for those closest to him during this difficult time.

Luke was the dearly loved son of Andrew and Lisa and Carolee and a cherished brother to Jozephyne, Charlie, Aaliyah, Sophie, Wyatt, Alex, Hayden and Leo. His family connections extended across generations, including grandparents Owen and Linda Thompson, Terri-Ann and Rodney McLeish, and Margaret Bandholz, as well as great-grandmother Barbara Neilsen. He will also be deeply missed by nephews, cousins, extended relatives and friends whose lives were connected to his.

The family’s tribute includes the heartfelt words, “I Love You Most,” expressing the depth of affection surrounding Luke. At only 12 years old, he occupied a special place within a large family network, and his unexpected passing has created an absence that will be felt through countless ordinary moments. Parents and siblings grieving the death of a child or brother face an especially painful adjustment, while grandparents, relatives and friends must also find their own ways to process the loss and preserve the memories they shared.

Family and friends are invited to gather for prayers in Luke’s memory at St Mary’s Catholic Church on Adelaide Street, Maryborough, on Friday, September 18, at 11 a.m. The gathering will provide an opportunity for those who knew Luke to come together in remembrance. It will also give loved ones a chance to offer one another comfort and stand beside his family as they face the difficult reality of saying goodbye to a child whose life ended far too soon.

The available announcement does not provide a cause or circumstances surrounding Luke’s unexpected death. Without verified information, those details should not be assumed or speculated about. The focus remains on the family’s remembrance and the relationships Luke shared with those around him. His identity as a son, brother, grandson, great-grandson, nephew, cousin and friend reflects the many connections that made his place within the family and wider circle so meaningful.

For Luke’s loved ones, the upcoming prayer service will be more than a formal gathering. It will be a moment to share grief and memories while surrounding one another with support. The presence of family and friends can offer reassurance during a period when words may not fully express what has been lost. Luke’s nickname, “Lukey Dukey,” and the loving words shared in his tribute will remain among the personal reminders of the affection people held for him and continue to carry forward.

As September 18 approaches, the Bidwill and Maryborough communities will have an opportunity to remember Luke Arthur Thompson and support those grieving his death. His parents, siblings, grandparents, extended family and friends will carry memories of a young life that meant so much to them. Luke’s passing is a profound loss for everyone who loved him, but the bonds he formed will continue through those who remember him. May his family find strength together and comfort in the love surrounding them.