James E. "Jay" Thompson

So sorry to read this. Working with Jay at Channel 40 was a joy every day. He was definitely one of the "good ones "

Dear Tracey and Jeff and your families,

It was just today that I learned of Jay's death and it saddened me as I began to reflect on the people who had crossed my life's path that are no longer with us and those with whom I lost touch__Jay being one of them. Please accept my sincere and heartfelt condolences.

Jay, Jim, Gil and Dick__the "Tikis" and the memories from when they and their music became such an important part of my life. Folk music grabbed hold and took us along an interesting journey of life experiences that would leave an imprint on how each of us might move on from that uncertain period of time.

I am grateful for that time, for knowing Jay and for time spent with his dad when there was practice at their home and I might have been there with Dick, who I would marry within that time frame.

Yesterday I was listening to Joan Baez__this morning I was led to check the November/December obits and found Jay__whose
voice I will not forget.

Cindy Watson

Tracey I am so sorry for your loss. Jay was one of my favorite people on the New England Classic rides. A truly good guy.

So sorry to hear of your loss Tracey. Jay was indeed a great and talented man. He will be missed by many.

When I became friends with Matt he took me in to his family. He always encouraged me to be myself. Always offered me all the love and understanding I needed. I can say that you helped me become a better person.

To Jeffrey & Jay's family: Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your big brother & loved one. Growing up next door to the Thompsons on Jefferson St. brings back many fond memories of Jay orchestrating summer activities.
One summer, Jay had us younger kids believing UFO's & Martians were in our neighborhood. He used tape recorders, radio's & other assorted electronics, as well as combining burned wires, radio tubes & melted plastic into a blob.
These, along with his story telling, convinced us that extraterrestrials were present. We had great fun & enjoyed every moment. Rest in peace, my friend.

Harry Craven

My condolences to Jay´s family and especially his brother Jeff, my friend. Growing up in Holyoke in the 50´s and 60´s there were so many kids that we literally ran in packs. Jay was the " leader of our pack" and was especially looked up to by us little kids. He spent lots of time with us and entertained us with fascinating and scary stories that he would make up on the spot. It wasn´t unusual to find Jay surrounded by a bunch of us while he beat on a tomtom while he told stories. He´d also bring home "exotic" instruments like the zither to entertain us. Few people in this world had his boundless curiosity and the talents to match. He will be missed.