James Howard Thompson

1941 - 2023

James 'Howard' Thompson, 82 of Independence, MS passed away Monday, December 4, 2023. He was born on January 18, 1941, in Hernando, MS, to John and Lena Harris Thompson. Howard was an extremely proud graduate of Hernando High School. Following high school, he continued his education at Northwest MS Community College, Delta State University and completed three additional graduate degrees from the University of Mississippi. At 28, Howard became the principal of Levi School and later Bruce School in Memphis, TN. In 1978, he joined the Briarcrest Christian School System and served as principal of Ridgeway and Towering Oaks. Howard had profound love and respect for his students and staff. Before retiring, Howard directed his love to the residents of Kirby Pines Retirement Community in East Memphis where he served as the Administrator. Howard was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Independence for almost 60 years. He loved the Lord with all his heart and soul. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 59 years, Jamie Miller Thompson of Independence, his sister, Linda Thompson Latting of Hernando, MS and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Howard is preceded in death by his parents, John and Lena Thompson, along with siblings, William Thompson, Lora Stein, Eunice Gross, Johnny Thompson, Gene Thompson, Helen Kimmel, and Nancy Jennings.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Independence Mississippi. The church address is 9290 MS Highway 306, Coldwater, MS 38618.

Memorial contributions may be mailed to: Mt. Zion Baptist Church, P. O. Box 155, Independence, MS 38638 or Independence Arts Conservatory P. O. Box 122, Independence, MS 38638.