Robert N. Tompkins “Bob”, age 91, of Vineland, NJ, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Genesis Subacute Unit 3, surrounded by the loving presence of his devoted wife, Marta.

Born on May 6, 1935, in Salem, NJ, he was the son of the late William and Dorothy (Harvey) Tompkins. Bob lived a full life marked by kindness, a deep devotion to his family, and a wonderful sense of humor. A faithful believer in his savior, Jesus Christ, his favorite Bible verse was:

“If God is before me, who can be against me.”

A Life Well Lived

Bob built a dedicated career as a professional machinist, mechanic, and plant manager at Owens-Illinois in Bridgeton, NJ. Outside of work, he had a passion for collecting old fruit jars and was an active member of the South Jersey Bottle Collectors.

In his free time, Bob loved fishing, gardening, and cheering on his favorite sports teams, the Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Eagles. He shared a special bond with his best friends, his doggies, Luna and Kiko, who were his faithful companions. Above all, Bob loved traveling and savoring every moment of life alongside his beloved wife, Marta.

Bob was the deeply loving husband of Marta Tompkins with whom he shared 39 and a half beautiful years of marriage.

He is also survived by his son who he loved dearly, Sam Echevarria Jr. (JuVonya) and by his grandson, his pride and joy, Alijandro Echevarria (Lourdes) and by his 2 sisters; Mildred Cyrelson and Kathleen Wilson and many other family members.

In honor of Robert’s personal request, there will be no viewing or formal services. A private inurnment will be held at Fernwood Memorial Park in Hopewell Township, NJ.

The family of Robert N. Tompkins wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses, aides, and Brinty (NPA) for the compassionate and loving care they provided to Bob.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.

Robert’s Thoughts:

The yesterday’s time is over, the time has arrived.

If you are ever going to love someone, love them now,

while they can know the sweet and tender feelings

which from true affection flow.

Love them now, while they are living.

Do not wait until they’re gone, and then have it chiseled in marble.

Sweet words on ice-cold stone.

If you have tender thoughts of them,

please tell them now.

If you wait until they’re gone to sleep,

never to awaken, there will be death among all,

they won’t hear you then.

So, if you love someone even a little bit,

let them know while they are living

so they can treasure it.

~~Robert N. Tompkins

Psalm 23 The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall lack nothing.

Funeral services were held privately.

Arrangements are in the care of Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.