Jason Willard Thompson

Jason Willard Thompson, age 54, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
Born in Wilmington, DE on January 16, 1971, he was the son of Beverly (Moen) Kates and the late Phillip Thompson. Jason completed a Bachelor's degree from the University of Delaware in 1993 and began a brief career in banking. Seeking a more fulfilling path, he earned a Master's degree in Education in 2000, became a paraeducator at P.S. duPont, and ultimately dedicated more than two decades to his 3-grade students at Mount Pleasant Elementary. He retired on July 1, 2025.
Over the course of 25 years, Jason earned respect and admiration as an educator and colleague. As a long-time team leader, he helped those around him become better teachers through his example, wisdom, and guidance. Beloved by his peers and students, he was a tireless advocate for all children, leaving an enduring legacy of service, kindness, and dedication.
Outside of school, Jason continued to inspire students as the Director of the Governor's School for Excellence for many years.
Jason was an avid world traveler and managed to touch every continent except Antarctica. He enjoyed cooking, reading, and pretending he could sing along to '80s music. Most of all, he cherished time with his countless friends. Jason made friends quickly and somehow managed to forge deep bonds with all of them. He was always open to trying new experiences with them, going out to dinner, or simply sitting and talking into the wee hours. A generous host, he loved to have people over for meals, game nights, and, of course, legendary holiday parties.
In addition to his father, Jason was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Harold and Catherine Moen; paternal grandparents, Leonard and Helen Thompson; stepmother, Patricia Thompson; and stepfather, Paul Kates. He is survived by his life partner of 23 years, Robert G. DeRemigio; his mother, Beverly Moen Kates; his brother, Ethan Thompson (Alisa); his niece, Meagan Thompson (Rich Golia); his nephew, Shane Thompson; and his dearest friends, Elizabeth Eggleston and Shawn Snyder.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE. The memorial service will begin at 6:00 p.m. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jason's name to Five Points Fire Company, 209 S. Maryland Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19804, or online by clicking here (www.fivepoints17.com/page/donations).