James Roy Tompkins

Jim graduated from the Michigan Academy of Radio Science in 1941.

Jim was commissioned an Ensign in the US Navy in 1942 and wore his Navy Blues proudly. He retired at the rank of Captain USNR in 1962. It was during a port of call in Seattle that he met and later married his wife, Elaine Eberle, of Vancouver, WA sharing 61 years of marriage together.

He was employed by Pacific Northwest Bell Telephone Company in Portland, Oregon as an engineer. Throughout his life, Jim encouraged and mentored young people to pursue their dreams and continue their life long learning.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elaine, in 2009. He is survived by two sons, James (Kentucky) and Roger (Seattle).

Jim had a strong Christian faith. His affiliation with the Episcopal Church had it’s roots at St. Mark’s, in Coldwater, Michigan and included St. Luke’s and Church of the Good Shepherd, Vancouver, where he was a charter member.

Jim was a graduate of the Diocesan School of Theology; a licensed layreader, Eucharistic Minister, and tireless member of Hospital ministries. In 1988 Jim received the distinguished Episcopal Bishop’s Cross for his extraordinary activities both within the church and as a witness of his faith in the larger community.

Jim was inducted into the Rotary Hall of Fame for his on-going community service. He, also, served two terms as Senior Citizen Advisor to the Washington State Legislature.

Jim served 30 years on the board of Southwest Washington Medical Center (PeaceHealth) and was the first chairman of the SWWMC Foundation. In recognition of his dedication and support of the SWWMC Chapel, PeaceHealth SWMC is establishing an endowment in the memory of James and Elain Tompkins, which will benefit the existing and future chapels with PeachHealth SWMC.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 12th at 3:00 p.m. at Church of the Good Shepherd, 805 Ellsworth Road, Vancouver, WA. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Endowment at PeaceHealth SWMC or to the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Vancouver, WA.