Charles A. Thompkins Sr.

Charles A. Thompkins, age 62. Sunrise December 24, 1963 and Sunset September 18, 2026.

God sent baby Charles to the world on December 24, 1963. Although he started in Cambridge Ohio, he soon became a Milo-Grogan resident.

As many from the Milo-Grogan Community, he attended the Milo School now known as "Milo Arts", Everett Middle School and on to finish from Centennial High School. While attending the Milo School, young Charles entered an arts contest. HIs drawing of a Mustang won the contest, creating the community mascot the "Milo Mustangs" that is still used today.

At the age of 13, he was highlighted in the Columbus Dispatch as a young leader for his ability to connect with those younger than himself and the positive influence he made on others. It didn't take him long to find his niche and begin walking in his purpose.

If Charles was not creating and organizing events to help others himself, he was working alongside someone who was creating and organizing. He is well known for events like the Milo-Fest, the Milo-Grogan Adopt-A-Family at Christmas toy event and lovingly referred to today as "Mayor of Milo". Over the years, Charles has worked with countless businesses and groups, sat on multiple Advisory Boards and advocated for the Milo-Grogan Community like no one else. He had a strong passion to help others, the ability to connect with everyone and a momentum that was unmatched.

Charles has received multiple awards and resolutions throughout his journey. He currently serves as Chair for both the Milo-Grogan Area Commission and the Milo-Grogan Foundation, a nonprofit he created with his wife to continue the legacy in Milo-Grogan.

In 2025, an apartment community within his neighborhood was renamed "Thompkins Village" in his honor and he received the "Key to the City" of Columbus, Ohio from Mayor Andrew Ginther.

Throughout his 50 years of volunteer service to others, he has touched countless lives, received numerous awards and created legacies around the City of Columbus and beyond. He was a man on a mission with a focus to do the work God laid before him.

On September 18th, he fulfilled his purpose and God called him back home to rest. We thank Charles for his sacrifices and humble submission to God for God showed all of us His love through the work of Charles.

Charles is preceded in death by his beloved parents; Daniel Pannell and Lena Thompkins-Pannell and his brother Darrell Thompkins.

Loving memories will be cherished by his wife of 23 years: Melissa Thompkins; his children: Amber, Timothy and Charles Jr.; his grandsons: Isaiah and Orlando; his aunt, Connie Tate; his sister, Carmel (Gary) Griffin Sr., his sister-in-laws, Emma, Eva, Hilda and Clarissa; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family and life-long friends.