John Daniel Thompson

John “J.D.” Thompson, 90, passed away on March 20, 2026. He was born on August 4, 1935, to the late George L. Thompson and Neva W. (Bevis) Thompson. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Norman Thompson and Charles Thompson.

J.D. was a 1957 graduate of Johnstown-Monroe High School in Licking County, Ohio. He served in the United States Air Force as an Airman Second Class from October 4, 1957, to September 20, 1960, and was honorably discharged.

J.D. was widely known and respected throughout the State of Ohio for his remarkable career as a high school and college basketball referee. For more than four decades, he brought fairness, professionalism, and a passion for the game to every court he visited. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was inducted into the Middletown Basketball Officials Association Hall of Fame and was honored by the Ohio High School Athletic Association in 2018 for 43 years of meritorious service. His presence and influence left a lasting impact on players, coaches, and fellow officials alike.

He is survived by his son, Jeffrey Thompson, and daughter-in-law, Julie Thompson, and their children: Luke, Isabelle, Audrey, and Esther. He is also survived by his daughter, Karen (Thompson) Rathbun, and son-in-law, Bob Rathbun, and their children: Jack and Scott.

A memorial service will be held on April 2 at 10:00 AM at Washington Heights Baptist Church, 5650 Far Hills Avenue, Dayton, Ohio. A graveside ceremony will follow at 2:00 PM at Greenhill Cemetery, 9 Johnstown-Alexandria Road, Johnstown, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, the Thompson family welcomes donations to Dayton Christian School’s Genesis 7 Campaign.

Donations may be made online at https://www.daytonchristian.com/our-community/genesis-7-campaign, or via check at:

Dayton Christian School

c/o Advancement Office

9391 Washington Church Road

Miamisburg, OH 45342