A hero’s return: Family at forefront in Thome’s reunion with Limestone

Nazareth Academy assistant coach and Limestone alum Jim Thome sits in the on-deck circle with his son, Landon, during a game against Limestone on March 28

BARTONVILLE – A mural painted on the side of Limestone’s press box reads a famous quote from the high school’s most cherished son.

“Something special is always about to happen. You’ve got to believe it. - Jim Thome” 

That paint prophesied. 

Thome is now an assistant coach for state powerhouse Nazareth Academy where his son, Landon, is a star shortstop. On Friday, fans, children and members of the community flocked to see Thome return home as the Roadrunners took on his alma mater. 

Thome hit no shortage of home runs at the field affronting Airport Road in Bartonville. And nearly four decades later, his son hit not one, but two towering homers at his dad’s old stomping grounds.

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