James Edward Thompson, Jr.

James Edward Thompson Jr., 88, went home to his Savior on Saturday, July 9, 2016. Tommy, as he is commonly known, passed away peacefully at home with his wife and two grown children at his side.

Tommy was born to James and Edna Thompson as the oldest of three children in Richmond, Virginia on August 13, 1927. He enlisted in the Air Force and proudly served his country for 27 years that included three tours of duty during the Vietnam War.

Tommy was married to Kuniko Nonaka for 61 years, and they had two children, Carole Thompson (Myke Henderson) and David Thompson (Ann Thompson). Tommy has one grandson, David Stover, one granddaughter, DeAnne Giles, and one great grandson, Vincent Ponder-Stover.

Upon retirement from the military at Forbes Field in Topeka, Tommy worked for the Kansas Department of Transportation for twenty years as a Right of Way agent before retiring in 1992.

Tommy was a sweet, kind, generous, funny, and tender-hearted man. He faithfully attended Central Church of Christ since 1988 where he enjoyed leading song services for elderly patients at Hearthstone Nursing Home for many years. He also enjoyed playing tennis well into his 70's. He is a former president of the Topeka Tennis Association and enjoyed coaching many younger players as they developed their game.

He was a loving husband and father who was blessed with a loving family, a loving church family, countless friends and acquaintances.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Alzheimer's Association or Central Church of Christ.

A memorial service will be held at 1 pm at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel, Friday, July 15, 2016 followed by a reception.

Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting the family.

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