Obituary and funeral services: James Paschal Thompson, 86, of Between

James Paschal Thompson, age 86, of Between, GA, passed away on October 10, 2017. He was born at his home in Between, on October 11, 1930 to the late Louise Briscoe Thompson and the late James William (Willie) Thompson.

James grew up on his family’s farm in Between. After graduating high school in Monroe, he continued his education at Abraham Baldwin Agriculture College for 2 years and then transferred to the University of Georgia where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Plant Pathology/Entomology. James then joined the United States Air Force, where he served as a Corporal in the Strategic Air Command. While serving as a crew member on B-36 Bombers, he was stationed at Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas. He also spent time serving in French Morocco and Alaska. In 1954, while serving at Carswell AFB, he met and married his beautiful wife of 62 years, Gaye Cox Thompson.
After his service in the Air Force, James and Gaye moved to California where they started a family and he continued his education at the University of California, Berkeley. After receiving his master’s degree, he worked for the University of California in laboratory research. He was later employed as a research scientist with the Ortho Chemical Company, researching diseases affecting crops. In 1972, he moved his family back to Monroe where he and Gaye settled to raise their 4 children. After moving back to Monroe, he worked for the Atlantic Richfield Company until his retirement. James was dedicated to his family, not only taking care of his father and sister in their later years, but also giving selflessly to his wife and children. Later in life, James enjoyed travelling with his family.
He was preceded in death by his sister, the late Francis Thompson.
Mr. Thompson is survived by his wife, Gaye Cox Thompson of Monroe; daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and Mike Cook of Monroe, Stephanie and Jeff Fennell of Loganville; sons and daughters-in-law, Mike and Celia Thompson of Gainesville, GA, Dr. Byron and Laura Thompson of Monroe; grandchildren, Eric and Lindsey Thompson of Cumming, GA, Will and Jennifer Thompson of Canton, GA, Paul Russell of Loganville, Cassie Cook of Vinings, GA, Katie Cook of Athens, Emily, Amy, Ben, and John Thompson of Monroe, Evan and Colin Fennell of Loganville; greatgrandchildren Ava and Cade Thompson.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 3:30 pm in the Chapel of Meadows Funeral Home with Dr. Todd Ware officiating.
Meadows Funeral Home, Inc. was in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guestbook online at www.meadowsfuneralhomeinc.com.

Reposted courtesy of Meadows Funeral Home.