Aaron Joiner Tompkins, Jr.

With profound sadness we announce the passing of Aaron Joiner Tompkins, Jr, 68, of Terre Haute, Indiana. He departed his earthly life into his eternal peace on Thursday May 27th, 2021 at Union Hospital.

Aaron was born July 25, 1952 in Terre Haute, Indiana to Sophia and Aaron J. Tompkins, Sr.  Growing up Aaron enjoyed spending time with his 5 brothers and cousins, running around the neighborhood, playing sports, riding bikes, throwing rocks, riding motorcycles, and causing mischief. Aaron and his brothers were known as “The Tompkins Boys”.  Aaron attended the Vigo County School System and graduated from South Vigo High School.

Aaron was affectionally known as “Preacher” by everyone that knew and loved him. Aaron’s generosity, kindness, and desire to help others characterizes the nickname that was given to him by his great grandmother Jewell. She picked the perfect nickname for him.

On June 1, 1974 Aaron married the love of his life Georgia Mae Tompkins, they were married for 39 years until she preceded him in death in 2013.

Aaron was a caring husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend that was certainly loved by all. He was well respected and his pleasant personality was contagious to everyone he met. He was truly one of a kind.

Aaron retired from Terre Haute Transit in 2016 after 42 years of service, and during his career he served as the Union Rep President. Aaron had a great rapport with the passengers on his route and they were always happy to see him as their driver.  After his retirement Aaron enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, reminiscing about old times and playing cards. Aaron was also willing to help others in his spare time. He would volunteer to help you move, give you a ride to the store, a lift to the bank or a way to your doctor’s visit.

Aaron was an active member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 340 where he enjoyed spending time with his fellow Legion members. Anytime there was a party he was sure to show off his smooth moves on the dance floor.

Aaron lived a full life but was the happiest when he was fishing. He would spend hours catching blue gill and catfish. Everyone would say that he cooked the best fried catfish in town. Aaron loved playing the lottery and was skillful at selecting winning numbers. He kept a detailed notebook of lottery numbers and swore he had the perfect system. If he sent you numbers to play, you better play them, because you were sure to win. He loved sports and was a diehard fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs even when they weren’t winning.

Aaron was preceded in death by his wife, Georgia Mae Tompkins. His parents, Sophia and Aaron Tompkins, Sr; grandparents Rachael and Clifford Acuff, Magdeline and Orville Tompkins. Sister in laws, Jacqueline and Beverly Tompkins.

Aaron leaves to mourn his children, Linda (Rob), Aaron III (Yvette), JaAmar (Sarah) and Sophia (Omar); brothers Orville (Judy), Benjamin (Sheree), Gary, Leonard, and Tommy (Deidra). He was a proud Papa of his grandchildren, Ja’Mario, Cheyenne, Emoya, Shanya, Sierra, Aaron IV, JaAlyn, Jaidyn, and Omar. Great grandchildren; Nicholas, Amaria, Robert and Azrael. Brother in laws; Jackie Oliver, Michael and Tony Lambert; sister in law Linda Lambert and special sister Yvette Waller. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family of Aaron Tompkins would like to thank everyone for their kind words, expressions of sympathy, and support during our difficult time of bereavement.

On behalf of our family we would like to extend a special thank you to Fitzpatrick Funeral Home, West Terre Haute, Indiana for your professionalism during our difficult time.

The family has decided to have a Celebration of Life on July 24,, 2021. Further information will be provided at a later date.

Online condolences can be left at:  www.fitzpatrickfunerals.com