James Irl Thompson Jr.

1937 - 2024

On the morning of Monday, November 11, 2024, James Irl Thompson, Jr., of Rockwell, NC, passed peacefully from this life to the next. He was 87 years of age.

"J.I." was born to James Irl Thompson, Sr. and Fronie F. Thompson in 1937 in Lexington, NC. He graduated from Asheboro High School in 1956 and continued his education at North Carolina State University, then known as North Carolina State College. He worked in radio as a broadcaster, promoter, and producer for over 20 years, before starting his own music production and recording studio. Continuing as a successful entrepreneur, he later built and ran Score Advertising, Inc. from 1979 to 2006.

An accomplished and extraordinarily gifted musician and recording artist, music was his first love, playing various instruments by ear from early childhood. A devoted Christian, he focused his talents on gospel music, playing and singing and with various bands, including the Forresters, Oak Ridge Boys, and The Carolinians. He will always be remembered for his amazing and masterful ability to play the piano.

Among his other interests was his love for collectible cars of the 1950s, namely '57 Chevy's. His collection brought him many years of joy. He could recognize the make and model of almost any car from that era.

J.I. was a dedicated father, husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His witty sense of humor was always present, even in his last days. He was an incredibly strong, smart, creative, determined, hard-working man who took nothing for granted and always "found a way". His spiritual faith remained strong throughout his entire life.

He was also an Army veteran and a proud American.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Alice R. Thompson (2023); his parents, James Irl Thompson, Sr. and Fronie F. Thompson; four sisters, Selma Kivett (George), Hazel Thompson, Lillian Gordon (Erwin), and Opal Auman (Colon).

He is survived by his daughters, Shauna Tane Shaw (Todd AKA "Tony"), currently of Wildomar, CA, and Natasha Thompson, currently of Rockwell, NC; Brothers-In-Law, Wayne Jones and Timothy Woodie; nieces, nephews, and several cherished friends.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, November 22, at Brookhill Memorial Gardens in Rockwell. The family will greet friends and relatives following the service at the cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at www.powlesfuneralhome.com.