Scott Allen Tompkins

04/25/1963 - 02/02/2026

Scott Allen Tompkins, a proud Grand Rapids native, devoted husband, loving father, and cherished "Boppa," passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2026. At 62, he leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, and a life well lived.
Scott was born on April 25, 1963, in Flint, Michigan, and raised in Grand Rapids, where his lifelong love of family, sports, and community first took root. He earned his degree from Baldwin Wallace College, where he was not only a student but a fierce basketball player and competitor. He later continued his education at the University of Michigan, launching his coaching career and embracing, with unwavering pride and loyalty, a lifelong devotion to the Wolverines.
Scott's passion for coaching went beyond competition, rooted in mentorship, character, and the chance to shape young lives. He built his career at Capital University, coaching basketball, and then at Hardin-Simmons University, where he led both the basketball team and the women's cross-country team. Returning to Michigan, he devoted 25 years to teaching physical education and coaching basketball at Catholic Central and East Grand Rapids. In the later years of his career, Scott continued to inspire student-athletes at Aquinas College and Caledonia before returning to Catholic Central, leaving a lasting legacy of discipline, integrity, and confidence that endured long after the final buzzer.
Scott's greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his wife, Amy, his partner of more than 40 years-his constant companion, fellow adventurer, and the love of his life. Together, they built a life rich with devotion, laughter, and exploration, traveling across Europe, throughout the United States, and to more baseball stadiums than they could count. Their shared commitment to their children, grandchildren, and community was the foundation of their life together.
Scott was one of six siblings and valued deeply the bond he shared with his brothers and sisters throughout his life.
He leaves behind his three sons, each of whom he loved deeply: Dillon and Hilary, parents of Evey, Annie, Mason, and August; Austin and his wife, Aleah, parents to Arlyn Jo; and Landon and his wife, Kali, parents to Gatlin and Byron. To his grandchildren, he was not just a grandfather-he was Boppa, their biggest fan, their storyteller, and their steady source of joy.
Scott was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Tompkins.
Scott's legacy lives on in the countless athletes he coached, the students he taught, the colleagues he inspired, and the family he adored. His impact was wide, his love was fierce, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Funeral services will be held on February 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Saint Thomas Church, 1449 Wilcox Park Dr. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506, with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m.
A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following the service from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Eastern Hall, 506 Eastern Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. A private gathering for close family will follow from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.