Obituary for James Fred Thompson

It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of James Fred "Jim" Thompson on July 19, 2026. Born on June 1, 1942, to Alex J. Thompson and Allie Mae Flanary Thompson, Jim lived a life rich in family, friendship, service, and love. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose influence will continue to be felt in the hearts of those who loved him.

Jim was a man who rarely sat still. He believed that busy hands and a willing heart could accomplish almost anything. Gifted with a talent for building and creating, he spent countless hours crafting furniture, houses, and woodworking projects many that remain treasured pieces today. Every table, cabinet, and home reflected the care, patience, and pride he put into everything he did.

Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, carrying with him throughout life the values of dedication, discipline, and service. He was a dependable presence for those who knew him, always willing to lend a hand, fix what was broken, or tackle the next project around the house he cared for so faithfully.

Some of Jim’s happiest memories were made on the baseball fields and soccer fields where he coached Little League baseball and youth soccer. He cherished those years, not just for the games themselves, but for the time spent teaching, encouraging, and being a playful and reliable presence for the kids, including his boys. His steadfast guidance and fierce support shaped the lives of many young athletes who had the privilege of being coached by him.

Though strong and practical by nature Jim had a special softness beneath that commanding exterior. Dogs seemed naturally drawn to him, and he had an especially tender place in his heart for small children and babies. Nothing brought a smile to his face like holding a little one or sharing a laugh with a child.

For more than 60 years, Jim shared a remarkable love story with his beloved wife, Shirley. Together they built a life centered on family, loyalty, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Their marriage was a testament to commitment and partnership, and Shirley remained the love of his life throughout the decades they shared together.

Those who knew Jim will remember his clever sense of humor and quick wit. He had a way of making people laugh, often with a perfectly timed remark or a playful observation. He loved music—especially bluegrass music. In fact, those who knew him well would tell you that Jim was convinced bluegrass was the only kind of music worth listening to. He could often be found stomping his feet along to a favorite tune, enjoying the sound as if no better music had ever been made. He also enjoyed watching sports and spending time with family and friends.

Among his greatest joys in the last couple of years were his great-grandchildren. The twins especially adored their Granddad, and the bond they shared was a source of great happiness for him. His love extended across generations, creating memories that his family will carry with them forever.

Jim leaves behind a family who loved him dearly. He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Thompson; his sons, Mike Thompson and his partner, Al, and Gary Thompson and his partner, Dawn; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his brother, Wrightly Thompson Reed of Gwynn Island, Virginia; his sister, Shirley Perrone of Ocean Springs, Mississippi; and a large, beautiful extended family whose closeness was one of the great blessings of his life. He also leaves behind many dear friends who loved him, laughed with him, listened to his many colorful stories, and stood by him through the years.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brothers, Bill, Henry, Bascom, John, and Roger Thompson, his sisters, Della Decker, Marie Murray, and Virginia ("Pete") Chairmont, and his half-sisters, Naoma Pannell and Roxie Russell. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Jim was a devoted Christian whose faith was the foundation of his life, guiding his actions, shaping his character, and sustaining him through life's joys and challenges. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the love he shared with family and friends. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of faith and love will continue.

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13

Jim's hands may now be at rest, but his legacy lives on in the homes and furniture he built, the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the family he loved so completely. His life was a testament to hard work, devotion, kindness, humor, and the simple joys of being together. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of all who knew him. ??

At Jim's request, no services will be held at this time. Interment with military honors will take place at a later date at Florida National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Jim's honor to the Alzheimer's Association or Hospice of North Carolina.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Department of Veterans Affairs Home-Based Primary Care Team and to Hospice of North Carolina for their compassionate care, support, and dedication during Jim's final days. Their kindness and professionalism brought comfort to both Jim and his loved ones and will be remembered with sincere appreciation.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.