James Edward Tompkins
James Edward Tompkins went to his heavenly home on July 7, 2024. Born on September 11, 1948, to Clara and Melvin Tompkins in Abilene, Texas. James attended Gruver Elementary, Bangs Junior High, and graduated from Rotan High School.
James attended Texas Tech University where he participated in Saddle Tramps and graduated with his Civil Engineering degree. His love for everything Texas Tech was deep. He continued to support his Red Raiders by attending football, basketball, and baseball games. After graduating from Texas Tech, James worked for the Texas Highway Department in Plainview, Texas. In 1976, he moved his family to Andrews when he had the opportunity to buy A.W. Harrison’s engineering company, which became J.E. Tompkins Engineering. His company continued to grow and prosper and is now known as WTC. James was an active longtime member and faithful attender of Means Methodist Church in Andrews where he served in many different capacities over the years.
James me the love of his life, Deborah Dutton, while at Texas Tech. They were married on March 25, 1972, in Littlefield, Texas. Together they raised three children: Chad (Laura) Tompkins, Leah (Tim) Nelson, and Nathan (Crystal) Tompkins.
James was a devoted father, known for his presence at every event his children had. He coached many kid’s sports teams and was the Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 46. He loved to travel, especially camping and being outdoors with his family. He took the time to show his love for the outdoors to his children, taking them camping and teaching them the love of fishing. He always cherished the memories from each trip and would talk about them for years.
James was predeceased by his parents, Melvin and Clara Tompkins; and his sister Leta Swindell. His memory will forever be in the hearts of his surviving family: his wife Deborah; his children, Chad and wife Laura Tompkins, Leah and husband Tim Nelson, and Nathan and wife Crystal Tompkins. His 10 grandchildren Jack, Cole, Evan, and Luke Tompkins; Emma, Benjamin, and Samantha Nelson; Triston, Harper and Addie Tompkins. His sister Lois Morgan and her husband Richard and many nieces and nephews.
A service to celebrate James’ life will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Means Methodist Church, visitation will be Thursday, July 11, 2024, from 5-8 PM. Following the service, James will be laid to rest at the Andrews County Cemetery. James will be remembered as a loving husband, father, papa, brother, and friend.
