James Killough Thompson

James (Jim) Killough Thompson September 26, 1932 – March 16, 2025

James (Jim) Killough Thompson, 92, entered into heaven on March 16, 2025, where his beloved wife, Pat, had been waiting for him. He passed away peacefully at home cared for by loved ones.

Jim was born on September 26, 1932, in Oklahoma City to Ferris and Irma Thompson. He graduated from Anadarko High School in 1950, where he met the love of his life, Pat Wolfenberger. The two were high school sweethearts and shared more than 69 wonderful years of marriage.

On December 13, 1950, Jim and Pat married and Jim soon moved to Camp Polk in Leesville, Louisiana, where Jim was stationed with the Army National Guard. He later served in Korea, earning the rank of Master Sergeant.

In 1952, the couple moved to Stillwater, where Jim attended Oklahoma State University, was a member of the OSU band, and graduated in 1955 with a degree in education. A devoted Cowboy, he remained an enthusiastic supporter of OSU athletics and a proud member of the alumni community.

Jim dedicated his career to shaping young minds through music and education. He began as a band director in Buffalo, OK (1955-1957), Perkins, OK (1957-1958), and Woodward, OK (1958-1967). In 1967, after earning his master’s degree in education, he transitioned into administration, serving as an elementary school principal. In 1969, Jim and Pat moved with their five children to Perry, where he became the principal of Perry Elementary School. In 1980, he was named Superintendent, with Pat serving as his secretary. All five of their children proudly graduated from Perry High School.

In 1988, Jim and Pat moved to Scott City, Kansas, where he continued as Superintendent until his retirement in 1994. The couple then returned to Perry, the community they cherished.

Faith and service were central to Jim’s life. He and Pat were longtime members of the First United Methodist Church, where he served for many years as choir director, while Pat and their daughter sang in the choir. They were active in their Sunday school class and participated in several Stage Coach Theater productions. The couple also delighted in playing Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus at church, the elementary school, and community events, always ready with a hug for every child.

Jim was a dedicated member of the Lions Club, recently receiving an honorary award for 73 years of service. He was also a proud member of the American Legion Post 53. In 2023, he was honored in a special ceremony with the Ambassador for Peace Medal, alongside fellow Korean War veterans.

Family was Jim’s greatest joy. Every summer, he and Pat packed up their five children and headed for the mountains, creating cherished memories. He had a passion for gardening, where he found peace among the flowers, songbirds, and hummingbirds. Jim was known for his warm and kind spirit, making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. He and Pat often stepped in as “substitute grandparents” for children in the community, and as an educator, he quietly ensured that students in need had coats and shoes.

Jim and Pat found immense joy in watching their grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s multiple activities. A special highlight for each family member was anticipating the phone call they received first thing in the morning on their birthdays. Granny and Papa would call and sing “Happy Birthday” EVERY year. In his later years, he enjoyed daily walks with his daughter, Teresa, alongside her dogs, grandkids, and great-grandkids at CCC Lake.

Jim is survived by his children:

Steve Thompson (Ranay) of Edmond

Teresa Jones of Perry

Mike Thompson (Kim) of Perry

He also leaves behind eleven beloved grandchildren:

Angie Jones (Perry)

Jennifer Shields (Jayson Perry)

Brian Jones (Kristy, McLoud)

Michael Anne Pentz (Nick, Brockport, NY)

Jessica Jeter (Greg, Ramona)

Julie Morris (Doug, Edmond)

Josh Thompson (Rachel, Bixby)

Kristin Gibson (Shaun, Perry)

Alissa Thompson (Arron, Oklahoma City)

Taylor Thompson (Brandy, Stillwater)

Cole Thompson (Oklahoma City)

Additionally, Jim was blessed with 30 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Howard and Robert Thompson; his daughter, Judy; his son, James K. “Jamie” Thompson, Jr.; brother-in-law Jim Reichard and his son-in-law, Buddy Jones.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of love, best known for his unforgettable bear hugs.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Companion Hospice and to their many friends for their love, support, and prayers.

Jim’s eleven grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.