Peter O'Brien Tompkins

Peter Tompkins, 60, of Durham, NC, died at home on Saturday, November 15, 2025 surrounded by his family, after a two year journey with ALS. Peter was born December 17th, 1964 in Williamsport, PA to Anne and Mikel Tompkins. The youngest of five children, Peter grew up in Charlotte, NC and graduated from West Charlotte High School and UNC-Chapel Hill with a BA in Journalism. Chapel Hill was a special place for Peter. He met his wife Janene there on Valentine's Day in 1990, and spent much of his career working for the News & Observer in Chapel Hill, where he led the N&O's acquisitions of the Chapel Hill News and Village Advocate. Peter spent a total of 27 years at the N&O between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, and cherished his time with colleagues at the newspaper. Later, Peter managed a team of account managers at Bronto Software. Peter's colleagues speak of his dedication and mentorship of young professionals. Peter served his community as the President of the Chapel Hill Chamber of Commerce, and on the boards of Downtown Durham, Inc, the Southern Documentary Fund, North Durham Little League, Durham Rotary and as a Church Deacon. He was an avid Atlanta Braves fan and loved all things baseball. 

Peter’s proudest accomplishment was his family. He loved nothing more than taking them on a big adventure, whether on vacations to Europe or Ocracoke Island, or simply to the Eno River for a hike. While his spirit remains with them, his family already misses his humor, his sense of adventure, his pontifications, and his deep love for them. Peter was surrounded by the faithful care of his family and friends during the past two years, and especially during his final months as his ALS progressed more rapidly. We would like to thank Michelle Lewter, Awilda Reyes and Jonathan Livingston for their attentive care during Peter's illness. Peter is survived by his wife, Janene, daughter, Adair, son, Daniel, daughter in-law, Martha, and Peter's siblings and many friends. A memorial service will be held at Watts Street Baptist Church on Friday, December 5, at 2 pm. The family will celebrate at Peter's Big Irish Wake immediately after the church service at The Rickhouse at 609 Foster Street.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Duke ALS Clinic or ALS United of North Carolina.