Blacks@Dartmouth 1775 to 1960

Captain Albert Eugene Tompkins, USN, Ret., a Washington, DC physician for sixty years, passed away peacefully January 20, 2021. His beloved wife, Jenny, and a friend were by his side as he slipped into eternity. He was 86 years old. Albert was beloved and respected by his family, friends and colleagues. His life was defined by his dedication to his medical practice and his interest in lifelong learning.

Albert had a distinguished career at the Bethesda Naval Hospital as a physician and medical administrator. Along with his remarkable career at Bethesda Naval Hospital - Albert's service to others included a pediatric, internal medicine and allergy practice. Over this sixty-year period, he made significant contributions in his medical specialties. Albert was known for his intellectual curiosity and his love of travel and adventure. He constantly educated himself, developed new skills and expanded his scope of practice. Upon his retirement from Bethesda Naval Hospital, Albert began a new career with a private practice that specialized in allergies and asthma. His latest project was developing a career as a medical consultant.

He was an inspiring and enduring model to his family and friends. Albert's love of learning and his constant desire to challenge his intellect led him to study Spanish. He studied Spanish abroad, attended classes with private tutors and became fluent in the language. During a trip to Lima, Peru he met his wife Jenny and they married in 2008. This union brought great joy to him and he not only gained a wife but a loving family inclusive of step-children, grandchildren and in-laws.

Albert Eugene Tompkins was born in Washington, DC May 24, 1934 to Attorney Richard W. Tompkins and Katherine Simmons Tompkins. He graduated from Dunbar High School in Washington, DC and received his Bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College in 1956 and his Medical Degree from Howard University in 1961. (Published by The Washington Post from Jul. 17 to Jul. 19, 2021.)