In a heartfelt announcement, news coming from the family of former Senator Joe Manchin has left West Virginia and beyond in mourning. 

Summary

• Former Senator Joe Manchin announced the passing of his sister, Janet Thompson, at age 80.
• Thompson died peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by family, as per Manchin’s Instagram post.
• Described as a “force of nature,” Thompson was passionate about cooking and family.
• Manchin requested donations or shared meals in her honor to continue her legacy.
• Thompson leaves behind children, a granddaughter, and siblings, including Joe Manchin.

A Life Well-Lived 

On Tuesday, former independent West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin announced the passing of his older sister, Janet Thompson, who died at age 80 on Sunday, surrounded by her loving family. In an emotional Instagram post, Manchin described her as a “force of nature” and a “dedicated partner” to her late husband, Commander Robert G. Thompson, with whom she shared 56 years of marriage. “It is with heavy hearts that Gayle and I share that my sister, Janet Manchin Thompson, aged 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by her loving family,” Manchin wrote.

Thompson’s life was marked by her devotion to family and her passion for cooking, which she pursued by working alongside chefs and operating a restaurant enterprise. “Her recipes and ability to turn any gathering into an event will continue to be a source of comfort, tradition, and connection for generations to come,” Manchin continued, highlighting her knack for bringing people together through food.

A Legacy of Love 

Janet Thompson’s impact extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many through her warmth and hospitality. Survived by her two children, a granddaughter, five siblings, including Joe Manchin, and other relatives, Thompson’s legacy is one of strength and community. Her passing comes after the loss of her husband and her parents, John Sr. and Mary Manchin, further underscoring the tight-knit nature of the Manchin family.

West Virginia Governor Jim Justice, a Republican who succeeded Manchin in the Senate, offered condolences, saying, “Janet Thompson was a true West Virginian whose love for her family and community was evident in everything she did. Her memory will live on in the meals shared and stories told.” The sentiment reflects the conservative value of honoring family ties and community contributions, which Thompson exemplified.

Honoring Her Memory 

In lieu of traditional tributes, Manchin requested that loved ones share or donate a meal in Thompson’s honor, a nod to her culinary passion. This call to action resonates with conservative principles of community-driven support and preserving traditions. “Janet’s ability to make every meal a celebration was her gift to us all,” said local pastor John Bennett, who knew the family. “This gesture keeps her spirit alive.”

The request has sparked a wave of community response, with West Virginians sharing stories of Thompson’s warmth on social media. One X post noted, “Janet Thompson’s legacy is a reminder of what makes our state strong—family and faith.” While not directly referencing Thompson, the post captures the sentiment surrounding her passing, emphasizing values dear to conservative audiences.

Manchin’s Political Journey 

Joe Manchin, who served as a U.S. Senator from 2010 to 2025, has long been a polarizing figure, balancing moderate stances with West Virginia’s conservative leanings. His decision to leave the Democratic Party in May 2024 to register as an independent reflected his commitment to bridging divides, a theme echoed in his sister’s unifying presence. Manchin’s announcement of Thompson’s passing comes as he transitions from public office, having chosen not to seek reelection in 2024 after polls indicated a likely loss to Governor Jim Justice.

Despite his political challenges, including backlash over the Inflation Reduction Act, Manchin’s focus on family in this moment highlights a universal value. “Joe Manchin’s tribute to his sister shows what matters most—family over politics,” said conservative commentator Sarah Ellis. “It’s a reminder of the values that unite us.”

A Lasting Impact 

As West Virginia mourns Janet Thompson, her legacy as a “force of nature” endures through her family and the community she cherished. Manchin’s call to honor her through shared meals reflects a conservative ethos of preserving tradition and fostering connection.