Family, friends and patients are reeling after the news that a 26-year-old pharmacist, Zane Thompson of Andalusia, a man known for his “big caring heart,” died after his heart gave out Monday.

Thompson, who was employed at Florala Pharmacy, arrived early that day after going home sick the Friday before, said Charles Smith, president and owner of Florala Pharmacy Inc.

“It is a truly tragic situation,” Smith said. “To be so young, and starting a new life with his wife, Faith. The two had just closed on their new house and spent Thursday moving in. Zane thought that he was battling the crud, some chest cold, and went home early Friday. He showed up here early Monday, and by 8 a.m., he was gone.”

An Andalusia High School graduate, Thompson was the only child of Straughn High School teacher Cindy Thompson. He attended Troy University, and while there, was accepted into the Harrison School of Pharmacy at Auburn University. As an AU student, he was an active member of Kappi Psi pharmaceutical fraternity.

Thompson joined the staff of Florala Pharmacy and Pharm-a-care in May of 2012, immediately after graduating from the Auburn in May 2012.

“Zane had a big, caring heart for his patients and customers, and they, in turn, had grown to respect and love him back for the wonderful attributes he possessed in his role as pharmacist at both of our pharmacy locations, Florala Pharmacy and Pharm-a-care,” Smith said. “He was always very eager to help the patient, to help his co-workers. He was dedicated to getting the job done.

“He was a big man, with an even bigger heart,” he said. “His big shoes will be difficult, if not impossible, to fill. We have lost a mountain of a man.

“Zane was so young, only 26, but so wise in the field of healthcare,” he said. “He truly was a role model for all pharmacists as to what their role in the healthcare industry should be – a true professional.”

Funeral services will be held Thurs., Oct. 31, at 2 p.m. at Foreman Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be today from 4-8. To read his complete obituary, see Page 6.