News Summary
Margaret JoAnne Tompkins, an admirable mother and avid reader, passed away peacefully at the age of 88. JoAnne was remembered for her unwavering love and support to her family, particularly to her two sons, Ben and Marc. Known for her cooking skills and dedication to literature, her legacy of compassion is honored by many. The family invites contributions to a domestic violence center in her memory, reflecting her caring nature. A memorial service to celebrate her impactful life will be announced soon.
Atlanta, Georgia – Margaret JoAnne Tompkins, a beloved mother and avid reader, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on August 15, 2025, after a brief illness. Surrounded by her two devoted sons, JoAnne’s family remembers her for the love and support she generously shared throughout her life.
Born on July 29, 1937, in Blythe, Georgia, JoAnne was the daughter of James Floyd Wren and Nina Mae Martin. Her family later relocated to Augusta, Georgia, where she graduated from The Academy of Richmond County. During her high school years, a friend notably inscribed a heartfelt message in her yearbook, wishing her to have the two sons she had always desired.
In 1959, JoAnne married Benjamin Jones Tompkins in Augusta, and together they welcomed two sons, Ben and Marc. Despite later divorcing, JoAnne remained a pillar of love and support for her children, always prioritizing their needs and well-being. JoAnne was known for her nurturing spirit, providing her sons with unwavering acceptance and encouragement throughout their lives.
Food was another significant passion for JoAnne. As a young mother, she took “gourmet” cooking classes, and subsequently cultivated an extensive collection of cookbooks. Her culinary skills and love for cooking were cherished by her family, and many of her recipes became family favorites.
JoAnne was also an avid reader, with overflowing bookshelves in her home. She frequented local libraries in both Augusta and Atlanta, immersing herself in a variety of literature. Her interests varied widely, encompassing daily newspapers, periodicals such as People and Vanity Fair, along with her favorite newsmagazine and true-crime shows.
Throughout her life, JoAnne faced the heartbreaking loss of her parents and her brother, George Nathaniel Wren, but she remained resilient. She is survived by her sons, Ben (married to Steven) and Marc (married to Jenny), both residing in Atlanta. JoAnne also leaves behind her sister, Dorothy Lowery, and a niece, Tamela, both from North Augusta. Her two grandsons, Wren and James, played an essential role in her later years, bringing her immense joy and companionship.
In her final years, JoAnne lived in her own apartment within her son Marc’s home, where she was surrounded by her grandsons and felt the constant love and support from her sons. This family bond provided a strong foundation that brought comfort during her later years.
The Tompkins family plans to announce and host a memorial service in the near future to honor JoAnne’s memory and the impact she had on the lives of those who loved her. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Safe Homes, Domestic Violence Center in Augusta, reflecting JoAnne’s compassionate spirit for helping others in need.
Margaret JoAnne Tompkins will be profoundly missed by her family and all who knew her, remembered as a loving mother, passionate cook, and enthusiastic reader who touched many lives with her kindness and warmth.
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Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
