Thompson, James "Mace" F.

James F. "Mace" Thompson, 79, of Meriden and Avalon, NJ, husband of Pamela Morris Thompson, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 3, 2021 after a long battle with cancer surrounded by his wife and family members. Mace was born in Philadelphia on December 22, 1941, a son of the late Albert and Teresa (Dwyer) Thompson. A native of Philadelphia, PA, Mace attended St. Joseph's Prep, St Joseph's University, and earned a Masters of Business Administration from Harvard University in 1965. Mace started his career with The Leisure Group, a corporation with numerous companies in the shooting sports industry. He became President of the Reloading Products Division for The Leisure Group in 1972. In 1977 Mace headed a group of investors and purchased Lyman Products of Middletown. Mace served as President of Lyman until 2011 when he retired to become Chairman of Lyman's Board of Directors. He remained active and committed to the company until his passing. Mace, along with several siblings, also owned several bars in Philadelphia, including Mace's Crossing. Mace was an avid Philly sports fan and a longtime season ticket holder for his beloved SJU Hawks Men's Basketball Team. He was also a supporter of the St. Joe's Prep Crew Program. During his career Mace was a tremendous leader. He was a maverick, a creative thinker, and an innovator. He loved education and always took the opportunity to teach and mentor employees. His memory and legacy will live on with all that knew him. In addition to his wife, Pam, he is survived by his sisters, Helen, Dolores, and Marie: and 29 nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his five brothers, Albert, Joseph, Robert, John, and Bernard. A funeral Mass will be held at a later date in safer times. Donations in his memory may be made to Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, 405 Allen Avenue, Meriden, CT 06451. Arrangements are under the direction of The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 North Main Street Ext., Wallingford. For online condolences please visit www. wallingfordfh.com.