Thomas W. Tompkins Sr., known fondly as 'Tommy Tompkins,' passed away at age 91 in Mickleton, N.J. He leaves behind a loving family, notable for his roles as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Tompkins was a Navy veteran, dedicated family man, and active member of his community. His funeral service will be held on Oct. 3, 2024, in Mantua, N.J. Contributions can be made in his memory to St. John of God.
Photo courtesy of Smith Funeral Home
Tommy Tompkins
Thomas W. Tompkins Sr. (‘Tommy Tompkins'), age 91 of Mickleton, N.J., passed peacefully surrounded by family on Sept. 24, 2024.
Born in Camden, N.J., to the late Leo Tompkins Sr. and Cecilia (nee Nichols), Mr. Tompkins was the beloved husband of the late Joan Tompkins for 50 years.
He is survived by his children, Thomas W. Tompkins Jr.; Margaret Kurz and her late husband, Karl; Donna Abate and her husband Dan; Joseph Tompkins and his wife Bonnie; and Christine Riley and her husband Patrick. Loving Pop-pop to Kristy (Vaughn), Melissa (Mike), Franny (Alaina), Maeghan (Lou), Jennifer, Chelsey, MaryBeth (Kevin), Rachel (Reno), Danny (Madison) and Bobby.
He also enjoyed spending time with his 13 great-grandchildren, Jake, Cole, Dylan, Reese, Gavin, Samantha, Franny, Colin, Reno, Karlie, Olivia, Natalia and Vinny, and all the fur-babies in the family.
Mr. Tompkins was predeceased by his brothers, Leo and James Tompkins, and his sister, MaryEllen Leach, as well as in-laws, Margaret McCammon, Eileen Townsend (Richard), and William McCammon (Sarah). He was the loving uncle of many nieces and nephews and a great friend to many.
Mr. Tompkins grew up in Fairview and graduated from Camden High School Class of 1950. He served in the U.S. Navy in Key West and after his military service married Joan McCammon in 1955. They began their family in the Fairview section of Camden and eventually moved to West Deptford where they continued to raise their family and hosted many Christmas Eve celebrations and pool parties.
Mr. and Mrs. Tompkins both created memories and traditions that will last for life times to come. He loved summers in Sea Isle with his family. He was a member of Church of the Incarnation, American Legion Post 721 in Brooklawn and Knights of Columbus Council 6364. Mr. Tompkins enjoyed walking, traveling, playing pinochle and other card games, and was a Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles Fan. He loved his Irish heritage and made several trips to Ireland.
Mr. Tompkins traveled the world working for General Engines in Thorofare for 28 years, where he was a national sales manager. He then worked at Interstate Trailers Northeast Division as a regional sales manager where he worked for an additional 8 years. He then ended his career working part time with his son, Joe, and traveling to trade shows all over the country.
If you knew Mr. Tompkins, you knew "the Duck". He loved a family gathering but when he was ready to leave, he would say "Ok." He is now reunited with the love of his life, his parents, siblings and many family and friends. That is sure to be a party he won't want to leave.
Family & Friends may visit from 9:30 am to 10:45 am on Oct. 3, 2024 at Church of the Incarnation, 240 Main Street Mantua, N.J., where a funeral Mass will be held at 11 am. Interment will follow at New St. Mary's Cemetery in Bellmawr, N.J.
As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. John of God at www.sjogcs.org.
Memories and condolences can be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.
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