James Melvin Thompson

James Melvin Thompson, 84 of Durham, North Carolina passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 16, 2024. He was born in Lumberton, North Carolina on January 16, 1940, to the late Henry Frank and Sallie Phillips Thompson. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by brothers, Henry Thompson, Lester Thompson, and Franklin Thompson; sisters, Sadie Rae Davis, Joyce Rice and Sarah Kaukola.

James is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Christine Taylor Thompson, sons, James Anthony Thompson of Durham and Frankie Thompson and his wife Jill, also of Durham; grandchildren, Marshall Thompson and wife Sage; Paige Kopf and husband Erin; and Casey Thompson; great grandson, Cohen James Thompson; sister, Violet Crawford; sisters-in-law Gail Thompson, Catherine Parker and Betty Jones (Bobby), brother-in-law Ervin Kaukola; and many nieces and nephews.

James, the seventh of eight children grew up in Lumberton. Jimmy, as he was called, delivered groceries by bicycle for his family’s grocery business. He learned from his parents the value of hard work, daily dependence on and love for God. He grew up faithfully attending Antioch Baptist Church and graduated from Littlefield High School in 1958. He married his high school sweetheart and childhood friend, Christine Taylor in December 1959. They spent the early years of their marriage in Lumberton, where James worked for Winn-Dixie. During this time, his two sons were born. In 1968, James stepped out in faith and moved his family to Durham where he managed the Winn-Dixie at Croasdaile. He later was the owner/operator of Piggly Wiggly at Guess Road.

In 1985, James began managing the Kerr Drugs at Woodcroft, and would go on to manage Kerr Drugs at North Duke Mall, and Loehmann‘s Plaza. He was a highly respected manager during his career in retail sales. 

In later years, James enjoyed being a proud Papa to his three grandchildren by attending their ballgames and school events. He loved fishing and spending time with family at Topsail Beach, visits to Lumberton, and watching Duke basketball and NASCAR racing. 

Above all, James loved the Lord. He faithfully attended Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years. James lived his life putting God first, and others above himself. He set a wonderful example for his family of a life fully committed to serving God and others. His faith, deep love for Christine and his family, hard work ethic and humble spirit were what defined him.

A visitation will be held Friday, September 20th from 11:30 to 1 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Reverend Earl Echols and Reverend Ken Tilley will be officiating.

Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. 

Pallbearers will be Marshall Thompson, Erin Kopf, and nephews, Robbie Jones, Tim Jones, and Tadd Jones along with family friend Johnny Riley.

Honorary pallbearers will be nephews, Tommy Thompson, Sammy Liles, Keith Parker, and Ricky Parker.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ebenezer Baptist Church, 1210 Pleasant Green Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278 in his honor.