Former Senator Joe Manchin’s Sister Passes Away

On Tuesday, former independent West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin shared the sad news that his sister had died at 80.

In an Instagram post, Manchin revealed that Janet Thompson passed away on Sunday with her family by her side. He characterized her as a “force of nature” and a committed partner to her husband, Commander Robert G. Thompson, who also had passed away.

“It’s heartfelt that Gale and I share that little sister Janet Manchin Thompson, 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday surrounded by her beloved family,” Manchin expressed. He mentioned that she was preceded in death by her husband and their parents, John Sr. and Mary Manchin.

Manchin’s post mentioned that Thompson is survived by her two children, a granddaughter, five brothers, and other family members.

Thompson was passionate about cooking, having worked alongside various chefs and running her own restaurant. The family has encouraged friends and family to share meals or make donations in her memory.

“Her ability to transform recipes and gatherings into memorable events will remain a source of comfort, tradition, and connection for future generations,” Manchin noted.

Manchin served in the Senate from November 2010 until January 2025. In November 2023, he announced he would not run for re-election after acknowledging that his opponent, Jim Justice, would likely win. He later switched his political affiliation, registering as an independent in May 2024, expressing a desire to unify the nation.