James Forrest Thompson

James Forrest Thompson, 79 of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, surrounded by his family.

He was known for his giving spirit, dedication, and was a hardworking individual who always put the needs of others ahead of his own. Born in September of 1946 and raised in Alleghany County, Va he later met the love of his life, Patricia and was soon drafted by the United States Army at the age of 19 and served in VietNam. He was a dedicated City of Roanoke employee, a Superintendent of the Utility Lines Division and retired from there after serving 34 years and owned Thompsons Plumbing & Excavating. He loved to raccoon hunt, ride motorcycles, and take the family on vacation. He had a few common phrases regarding work “Get a Job” and “You’re Burning Daylight”.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 60 years; Patricia Bowes Thompson; son, James Allen Thompson; (India); a cherished grandson, Landon Thompson; daughter Pamela Podlewski, (Mark); his siblings, Karen Stanfield, Josephine Martin, Patsy Thompson, Brenda Sorie, Harvey Thompson, John Robert Entsminger and a special cousin Phillip “Gene” Thompson.

Preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Mary Thompson; a son James Forrest Thompson Jr; brothers, Henry, Carl “Pete”, Buster and Thomas “Gene ; Sisters; Barbara Oakley, Nancy Baldwin and Mary Ann Saunders.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 16th from 5:00-7:00 at Lotz Funeral Home at 1001 Franklin Rd SW, Roanoke VA. Interment service will be at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens on Friday, July 17th at 11:00 at 5731 Airport Rd, Roanoke.