•Thompson, James “Jeff”, Holley: age 85, died March 9, 2015 at the VMAC in Batavia after a brave and extended battle with dementia. The son of Virgil and Alma (Harris) Thompson, Jeff was born September 13, 1929 in Colcord, West Virginia. He was predeceased by his wife, Janet, in 2011 after 60 years of marriage. He is survived by his son, Dr. Steven J. Thompson (Candace); grandson, Dr. Steven Michael Thompson (Jennifer); granddaughter, Catherine Thompson; great granddaughter, Charlotte Thompson; brothers, Jack Thompson (Delores), Bill Thompson, Bob Thompson; sister, Betty Rich; several nieces, nephews, cousins.
Jeff received his draft notice on July 27th, 1951, the day before he and Janet were to be married and had to report for duty within 10 days. He served on the front lines in the Korean War as a machine gunner and received several medals including, the Combat Infantryman Badge and Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars. After returning home and earning his Master Machinists Certificate, both Jeff and Janet continued their employment with Owens Illinois in Charleston, WV before transferring to the Brockport plant in 1962, eventually retiring when the plant closed. After adjusting to the lack of mountains, Jeff came to love his new home and was an avid hunter and fisherman. If not exploring the woods or streams, Jeff could often be found on one of our local golf courses. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and a cherished friend to so many of his neighbors.
Jeff was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and life member of the Jewell Buckman Post 529 American Legion and the Holley VFW Post 202. His Memorial Service will be held at the Holley First Presbyterian Church, Saturday April 11, at 11:00am followed by military honors at the church. Memorials may be made to the Holley First Presbyterian Church, 34 E. Albion St. Holley NY 14470, American Legion Post 529, 5 Wright St. Holley NY 14470, Holley VFW Post 202, 8 Veterans Dr. Holley NY 14470. Jeff’s family is in the care of Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc.
