Jim Thompson, a 1996 inductee in the NFHS National High School Hall of Fame, passed away February 12 in Vero Beach, Florida, at the age of 89. Thompson was inducted into the National High School Hall of Fame for his contributions and accomplishments in the avocation of officiating.

Thompson began his career in officiating as a registered baseball umpire and basketball official in Florida in 1956 and football in 1959. He also has worked softball beginning in 1975 and volleyball in 1979. He worked 12 Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) state baseball championships, 12 state boys and girls basketball championships, six state football championships, and one state softball state title game. He officiated some sports until 2016 – a career that spanned more than 60 years.  

Thompson was highly involved in the National Federation Interscholastic Officials Association (now NFHS Officials Association), including a term as president. He received numerous awards including the Florida Athletic Coaches Distinguished Service Award and was inducted into two other sports halls of fame.