Jimmie Thompson served selflessly at Eloise’s Cooking Pot for 15 years.
By Ahndrea Blue
President and CEO Making A Difference Foundation
When we talk about heroes, we often imagine people whose names are etched into history books or celebrated on grand stages. But sometimes, the truest heroes walk quietly among us, humbly giving of themselves with little expectation of recognition. Jimmie Thompson was one of those heroes.
Jimmie was the very first volunteer who showed up when Eloise’s Cooking Pot Food Bank was just a dream beginning to take shape. He didn’t wait to see if the program would succeed. He didn’t ask what was in it for him. He simply came – with open hands, a willing heart, and a deep belief in helping others.
For over 15 years, Jimmie served faithfully, rain or shine. He delivered food directly to our clients’ doors – ensuring that no one was forgotten, no family was left hungry, no elder was left struggling alone. Week after week, month after month, Jimmie quietly carried the weight of compassion on his shoulders. His presence wasn’t flashy, but his impact was immeasurable.
In the life of an organization, there are people who become cornerstones. They embody the mission so deeply that their spirit becomes woven into the very fabric of the work. Jimmie was one of those people for Making A Difference Foundation and for Eloise’s Cooking Pot. His faithfulness was more than volunteerism; it was ministry. It was love in action.
As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the example he set. Jimmie reminded us that service doesn’t require wealth, prestige, or power. It requires showing up – again and again – for those who need you. In a world that often glorifies self-promotion, Jimmie chose humility. In a time when many are too busy, he chose consistency. And in a community where need can feel overwhelming, he chose hope.
We are better because of him. Thousands of households who received food over the years were touched by his kindness, whether they knew his name or not. And we who worked alongside him will forever carry his memory as a model of what it means to live with purpose.
The greatest honor we can give Jimmie is not just in our words, but in our actions. Let us continue to serve with humility, to care for our neighbors, to meet needs without hesitation – because that is what he did.
Rest well, Jimmie, my friend, my brother. You were one of God’s greatest blessings to me and MADF and your legacy will live on in every meal shared, every family supported, and every act of love carried forward. I MISS YOU ALREADY!