OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Convicted murderer, Wayne Thompson, is another step closer to freedom after the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board recommended his parole on Tuesday. Thompson was 15 when he killed his ex-brother-in-law. He said his then brother-in-law abused his sister and beat him up when he tried to protect her. Man convicted of 1983 murder is one step closer to parole For the last 40 years, Thompson has lived his life behind bars. He was sentenced to death in 1983, but that sentence was later overturned in a landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling and commuted to life with the possibility of parole. He was granted parole in 2003, but was later denied by Governor Brad Henry and sent back to prison. On Tuesday, parole was recommended by the board. Thompson appeared virtually before the board and told them he believes working while in prison has prepared him for the next steps. "I get up and go to work every day and I make sure that all the jobs are started and completed on time as required," said Wayne Thompson, who's serving a life sentence. While in prison, Thompson got a college degree and started mentoring others in sobriety. Commutation denied for Oklahoma pharmacist convicted of murder "He has done absolutely everything he can to show that he is ready to return to society," said Madison Boone, Project Commutation. The board agreed. "In my opinion, Mr. Thompson cannot do anymore to convince society that it would be safe for him to be on the streets," said Kevin Buchanan, on the Pardon and Parole Board. In the end, the board recommended parole. "He's going to be productive. He's going to... He's going to show the world, this was the right choice for the world," said Cynthia Thompson Welch, Wayne Thompson's sister. "We really appreciate that the board chose to recommend him today," said Boone. Thompson's family and friend's were overjoyed to hear the news. Oklahomans offered program to clear outstanding warrants "And no one's going to regret this decision," said Welch. As his sisters are hopeful they'll see him at home, soon. "Let him come home. Let him come home," said Vickie Hair. Tuesday's parole recommendation will go to the Governor's desk, where he will make the final decision in Thompson's release.