James "Jim" A. Thompkins

James “Jim” A. Thompkins, 79, passed away unexpectedly August 19, 2021 in Rockford, Illinois. Born on February 15, 1942 in Rockford, Illinois son to Cecil and Elizabeth (Johnson) Thompkins. A 1960 graduate of East High School, Jim went on to be a Winnebago County Sheriff Detective and retired there after 23 years in 1993. He married Carol Masters in Rockford on November 21, 1975. Jim was selfless, caring and compassionate. After retirement he worked for various funeral homes in the Rockford area helping wherever he could be of service. He was a member of City First Church for over 45 years. He also enjoyed spending monthly meetings with his other retired policemen over breakfast. In his free time he enjoyed boating, spending time in his pool, and adoring his grandchildren. His children will always be thankful for the teachings and guidance Jim gave them on anything that had to do with home improvement and life development. He had a quick wit, funny personality and kind soul that will be missed by all.
He will be missed by those who loved him most: his wife of 45 years, Carol; his children Dana De La Rosa, Brad and Chris Thompkins; his grandchildren Justin (Irene), Dalton (Linsey) Thompkins and Marcos De La Rosa; his brother Jerry (Hong) Thompkins. He will also be missed by his nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends. He was predeceased by his first wife Carmen Thompkins; parents Cecil, Elizabeth and step father Emil Lindell; his sister Joan Schultz.
A visitation will take place on Wednesday, August 25, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. Service will take place the following day, Thursday, August 26, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be established at a later date. To send online condolences, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com