James Patterson Thompson

James "Jim" Patterson Thompson, 88, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on January 19, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Marie Ann (Postulka) Thompson, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, on December 18, 1937, Jim was the son of the late Mills and Eleanor (Thomas) Thompson.

Jim was a proud graduate of West Catholic High School and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from King's College in Wilkes-Barre in 1961. He began his professional life as a dedicated science teacher at St. James High School in Chester, where he inspired students for 15 years and shared his love of golf by serving as the school team's coach. He later embarked on a successful second career in the pharmaceutical industry, serving as a regulatory affairs manager for William H. Rorer, Inc., until his retirement in 2001.

Outside of his professional life, Jim was skilled in carpentry and took great pride in working in construction, finding great satisfaction in building and fixing things with his hands. He enjoyed spending time golfing, cheering on his beloved Philadelphia sports teams, and enjoying the beach in Ocean City, New Jersey. Jim was deeply faithful and committed to serving his community. He was an active member of Saint Aloysius Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the Pottstown Rotary, which he joined in 1993, proudly serving as secretary for a time. He loved volunteering and helping others, and was a proud American who believed strongly in giving back.

Above all else, Jim was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose greatest joy came from spending time with his family.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife, Marie Ann; his children, Michael (Kara) Thompson, Linda (Lee) Freitas, Denise (Kristopher) Gucwa, and John (Regina) Thompson; his grandchildren, Kayla, Courtney, Ryan, Matthew, Kyle, Collin, Connor, Andrew, Emily, and Mitchell; and his great-granddaughter, Catherine.

In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his sister, Nancy Staquet, and her husband, Duke.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in the Gathering Center of Saint Aloysius Church, 223 Beech Street, Pottstown, PA 19464. A Funeral Mass celebrating Jim's life will follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place following the service at Saint Aloysius New Cemetery, located in the 800 block of Buchert Road, Pottstown, PA 19464.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's memory to Saint Aloysius Church, 844 N. Keim Street, Pottstown, PA 19464, or to the Alzheimer's Association.

Houck & Gofus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 955 N. Charlotte St., Pottstown, PA 19464, is entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be shared at Houck & Gofus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc.