Instrumental in organization of the college, Tompkins played a big role in the formation of the athletic program. He was the first athletic director and men’s basketball coach until 1952.
  He continued to be a supporter of the athletic program after moving into administration to become vice president and academic dean. Tompkins and wife Jewell served as second parents to many students after his 25-year career at the college and also held an annual fish fry for basketball players.
  Tompkins, who was a basketball player at Lon Morris College, was founder and president of the Texas Basketball Hall of Fame.
  He died at age 86 on March 6, 1991.