William "Bud" Ray Tompkins

William Ray Tompkins, 86, known to most as "Bud", passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born on May 28, 1939 in Washington County, Indiana, Bud was the son of Hugh Tompkins and Marguerite Wingler Tompkins. Their only son, Bud had eleven sisters whom he cherished greatly and often remembered fondly in sweet and funny stories shared about their childhood.

Bud is survived by his wife of 66 years, Geraldine "Jerri" Sue Tompkins, whom he married in Salem, Indiana on August 9, 1959; their five children Mary (Steve) Boggs, William "Bill" (Shannon) Tompkins Jr, Carla Tompkins, Kevin (Jody) Tompkins, and Kim (Jeff) Hoeltke; 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and two sisters Doris Tincher of Colorado, and Nellie Ford of Tennessee.

Bud's life was defined by the love he shared with his wife, Jerri. Their story began when they met as just teenagers and from that moment their hearts were set on each other. What started as young love grew into a lifelong partnership and together they built a beautiful life. Bud and Jerri faced every joy and hardship side by side, never wavering in their commitment to one another. Their marriage was a true testament to what it means to stand by each other no matter what life brings.

Bud served in the US Army Reserves, Private 1st Class from 1957 to 1965. He and Jerri then moved their young family to Columbus where Bud worked for Arvin Industries, retiring after 40 years of service. Bud did various jobs at Arvin during his career, but truly enjoyed his time working in the maintenance department.

A proud and dedicated father and grandfather, Bud, or "Papaw", found joy and purpose in caring for those he loved. Whether it was lending a helping hand, offering words of encouragement, or just showing up with a warm smile and a hug, he always put his family first. For many years you could often find Bud in the stands or on the sidelines of a football, baseball, or basketball game, or at a track or gymnastics meet. He was always there, celebrating every victory, big or small. Bud believed in showing up and he did so with all of his heart. For his children and grandchildren, he was the unwavering fan and cheerleader.

Bud had a great passion for classic country music and playing the guitar. A devoted fan of legends like George Jones, Johnny Cash, and Tom T. Hall, Bud found peace and comfort in the stories and soul of their songs. That same spirit lived in him when he picked his own guitar. Whether he was strumming along to a classic or writing a tune of his own, Bud loved to play music for and with his family and friends. He will be remembered by those who love him for the way his music could make any gathering feel like home. Bud took pride in his ability to share stories and songs with the people who mattered most.

Known by many as a man who could fix just about anything, Bud was always ready with the tools and advice to solve almost any problem. His garage was one of his favorite places; part workshop, part treasure trove, he spent countless hours there tinkering, building, and bringing old things back to life. Bud also had a love for collecting vintage model cars, a hobby that reminded him of his younger days and the classic styles that first sparked his admiration. Each car in his collection reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and his sense of nostalgia for simpler times.

Bud was the backbone of his family, an unwavering source of love, humor, and devotion. His love was steady and sure, a constant that held his family together through life's ups and downs. Bud lived by simple, but lasting values; hard work, loyalty, and always appreciating who and what he had. He leaves behind a legacy that will live on in shared memories of him, the lessons he taught, and of course the old country songs he loved.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory with Pastor Charles Cash officiating the service. Visitation will be held from 2 to 5 P.M. on Sunday, November 9, 2025 and one hour prior to the service on Monday. He will be entombed at Garland Brook Cemetery following the service. Those wishing may make memorial donations to the Our Hospice of South Central Indiana and the Bartholomew County Humane Society.