Jim Thompson, wonderful husband, father, and Pap-Pap died unexpectedly Saturday, 4-25-2020 at his residence.
Jim was born October 22, 1945 in New Brighton, PA. He was the only child of Bob and Jane (Wycoff) Thompson, but he grew up with close cousins, Jack, Judy, and Jill who filled his childhood with laughter. Jim met the love of his life, Paige Porter, when they were in Junior High. Paige and Jim married while he was attending Slippery Rock as an education major. Jim would tell you that he took his bride to Europe for a year, compliments of the U.S. Army. Jim was drafted into the Army where he proudly served his country in Germany. Returning from Germany with a new baby girl, Kim, Jim completed his studies at Slippery Rock acquiring a teaching degree, and then received his Master’s Degree from Westminster University.
Without ever applying, Jim was asked to teach for the Riverside School District, where he taught math for 34 years until he retired in 2005. All the while, Jim coached basketball. He loved basketball! Jim was lovingly known by almost everyone as “Coach T.” And to some, who knew him best, he was known as “The General.”
Jim is survived by his adoring wife, Paige, with whom he spent 53 happily married years. Jim was the father of 3 daughters, Kim (Vic Rangel), Kristin (Eric Oberg), and Jamie (Steve Floyd). He raised his girls to appreciate all things sport-related. He never wanted some boy to one up them on sports facts. And he knew sports facts. A devoted Steelers and Pirate fan, Jim never missed a Pittsburgh football or baseball game. The only team that rivaled his love of Pittsburgh sports was the Duke Blue-Devils.
Jim was a devoted grandfather to 7 grandkids: Giana and Bella (Rangel) of Ellwood City; Hannah, Emma, and Porter (Oberg) of Beaver; and Gavin and Liam (Floyd) of North Carolina.
He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in New Brighton for over 50 years.
Due to the pandemic, there will not be a public viewing. Private services will be held. Please be with us in prayer. The family wishes to celebrate Jim’s life once social distancing is no longer required. He will be missed by so many.
Memorial contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Marshall Funeral Home, Ellwood City. Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com
Heaven just gained a wonderful angel. Sincere condolences to your family and a special hug to Kim. Mardy & Dan Sinclair
I’m so sorry to hear this! He was the best teacher that I ever had. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Kim and family, I am so sorry to hear about your dad! He was one of my favorite teachers at Riverside and he was a wonderful man who definitely loved his family. I remember hanging out with you and your family when we were in school and what a great man your dad was. Praying for you my dear friend! Sending love and hugs your way❣️Sorry we lost contact through the years but know My heart goes out to you and your family.
My deepest sympathy to Paige, your daughters and the whole family. May he Rest In Peace.🙏
Mr Thompson pushed me in math and in sports. My confidence grew tremendously in his class. As a teacher, he was the perfect combination of kind and firm. My thoughts are with you. Sharon Gibbons
The Riverside Boys Basketball Boosters wish to extend our deepest sympathies. We will never purchase donuts for the team without getting a sugar free snack for Coach T! RIP my friend.
I am very sad to learn of Jim’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. With Love and Sympathy, Becky McCarty Lewis
Hugs and prayers
So sorry for your loss
Paige we are so sad to hear this news. We will be keeping you, the girls and family in our prayers. Please take care. Love, Donna and Vince
Kim, I am so very sorry for your loss!! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Paige know how sorry I am about Jim’s passing. You two always were the nicest couple. I will keep you in my prayers🎊😢🙏❤️
Kristin, I am so sorry for your loss! I hope you can find the strength to pass this terrible time. My thoughts are with you and your family.
So sorry for your loss. I loved your husband/dad. I had him for fifth grade math, and again in seventh grade math. 1974-1975, and 1976-1977. He always used to say, “If Sandy gets it, everyone should get it.” (I used to ask a million questions in order to understand math!) He was always so fun and so patient with us all. May he Rest In Peace.