James Russell Thompson

James “Jim” R. Thompson, 84, of Kansas City, Missouri, and formerly of Marion, Illinois, passed away at home on July 17, 2022, surrounded by family. He was born in Hurst, Illinois on January 15, 1938, to the late Lucile (O’Neal) Etherton.

Jim married Judith “Judy” Royster on July 22, 1958, and she survives. Together they enjoyed almost 64 years of marriage. Jim and Judy were truly a beautiful example of a happy, loving, and committed relationship.

Jim served in the United States Air Force and was a supervisor at Old Ben 25 coal mine. He retired in 1991.

Jim loved hunting, fishing, flying across the lake in his bass boat, eating a good filet mignon, all kinds of sweets, having coffee with friends, and most of all, spending time with his family. He was a proud and loving husband, dad, papa, brother, and friend. He fought to stay with us until the very end and although his loss has created a giant hole in our hearts, we are grateful he is no longer in pain.

Jim is survived by his wife, Judy; their daughters, Carmen (Ron) Rinella of Kansas City, Missouri, and Audrey West of Marion, Illinois; sister, Malinda Ferrell of Carterville, Illinois; granddaughter, Cory (Scott) Brown of Kansas City, Missouri; grandson, Nicholas (Laura) Rinella of Kansas City, Missouri; 6 great-grandchildren,  Javan Walston, Stella Brown, Jameson Brown, Mila Rinella, Giada Rinella, and Luca Rinella; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother; infant sister, Carmen; sister, Patricia (Pat) Owens; granddaughter, Casey Saffelder; and grandson, Noah Saffelder.

Visitation for Jim will be from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., Friday, July 22, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marion, immediately followed by a funeral mass. Fr. Brian Barker will officiate. Jim will then be laid to rest in Rosehill Cemetery in Marion, near his mother and grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jim’s name to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School in Herrin, Illinois, or to the charity of your choice.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville is in charge of arrangements. 

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