Rebecca Caroline “Becky” Thompson Obituary, ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Rebecca Caroline “Becky” Thompson, the vice president of science and education at the Saint Louis Science Center, has died at age 47 after going into cardiac arrest while attempting to swim the Catalina Channel off the coast of Southern California on July 31, according to her obituary.
Thompson joined the Saint Louis Science Center in 2024, bringing extensive experience in science education, public engagement, and outreach leadership from previous roles at Fermilab and the American Physical Society. During her time with the organization, she played a major role in advancing science education programs and strengthening the institution’s connection with the community.
As vice president of science and education, Thompson helped lead efforts to enhance the Science Center’s galleries, exhibits, and educational programming. Her work focused on creating opportunities for visitors to engage with science, research, and innovation taking place throughout the St. Louis region.
During Thompson’s tenure, the Saint Louis Science Center completed an 18-month renovation of the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, which reopened on July 18. The organization described the updated facility as the largest and most technologically advanced hybrid planetarium in the United States.
Before joining the Science Center, Thompson served as head of education and public engagement at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory near Chicago. There, she combined education and public engagement operations, including the Lederman Science Center, while expanding public programming efforts.
Thompson also spent 11 years with the American Physical Society, where she led public outreach initiatives. Her work included creating “Spectra: The Laser Superhero,” a physics comic-book series paired with hands-on science kits for middle school students, and bringing physics outreach programs to San Diego Comic-Con.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in physics from Bryn Mawr College in 2001 and a doctorate in physics from the University of Texas at Austin in 2007. Thompson was recognized as a fellow of the American Physical Society in 2016 and the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2023. She also authored several books, including “Fire, Ice, and Physics: The Science of Game of Thrones.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Thompson was known for her dedication to endurance sports. She completed 15 Iron-distance triathlons, including the 2024 Ironman World Championship in Nice, France, and later became active in ice and marathon swimming. The Catalina Channel attempt was part of her goal to complete the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming.
Thompson is survived by her husband, Philip “Bo” Hammer, and other family members. A private memorial celebration is planned in St. Louis. The Saint Louis Science Center has established a memorial fund in her honor and said it will continue advancing the mission of making science accessible and engaging for people of all ages. Her contributions to science education and public outreach will remain part of the legacy she leaves behind.
