James Emmet Thompson

James Emmet Thompson died on November 17, 2010 in Hideaway, TX. The fourth of six sons, he was born to Norborn and Evelyn Thompson in Okmulgee, Oklahoma on July 13, 1942. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Jack (1992), Monte (1993), and Sam (2007). His twin brother John and his wife Lenore of Fort Worth; brother Paul and wife, Mari, of Lakeway, Texas; sisters-in-law, Ruby and Evelyn; 22 nieces and nephews, and 26 great nieces and nephews survive him. A 1960 graduate of Okmulgee HS, James excelled in multiple sports. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation from Southeastern State College in Durant, Oklahoma. Following college he served two years in the US Army with duty in Germany. He was an excellent pilot and served as an Air Traffic Controller for more than 20 years. He retired in 1993 from John Wayne International Airport in Southern California. His most outstanding attributes were his genuine regard for people and loyalty to all. This, plus his adventurous spirit led him to teach English in many countries including Mexico, Korea and China till 2009, when he retired to the Hideaway Country Club Golf Course outside of Tyler, TX. James just celebrated his 50th Okmulgee High School Reunion in mid-October with many of the friends. James dearly loved his family and friends. He touched many lives in a special way. His relationships were built on giving, honesty, loyalty, friendship, kindness, and love for others. Most importantly, his spirit will always be with us. Services will be held, 2:00 PM, Tuesday, November 23rd, at Shurden-Jackson Funeral Home, Okmulgee, OK, with interment to follow at Okmulgee Cemetery.