James Kay “Jim” Thomson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, friend, and neighbor, passed away on July 21, 2026, at the age of 101, surrounded by his family.
Jim was born on July 6, 1925, in Wanship, Utah, to James Penman and Pearl Alma Wardleigh Thomson. He graduated as valedictorian from Morgan High School in 1943. At just 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Army to serve his country during World War II.
Jim served with the 100th Infantry Division in France and Germany, where his bravery and dedication were recognized with the Combat Infantry Badge, a Bronze Star Medal for valor, and a Purple Heart after being wounded in combat. He was discharged in April of 1946 as a Staff Sergeant.
Following the war, Jim earned his accounting degree from the University of Utah and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa in recognition of his outstanding academic achievement. He married MaryBeth Sommers in the Salt Lake Temple on December 17, 1947, beginning a partnership that would span 55 years. Together, they raised three children.
Jim spent his entire professional career with Amoco, dedicating 41 years to the company. He began his career in Salt Lake City, Utah, and in 1967 transferred to the Yorktown refinery in Virginia, where he and his family established lasting roots.
Jim was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in various church callings, including as financial clerk of the Denbigh Ward from 1994 to 2001.
Outside of work and service, Jim enjoyed reading, gardening, fishing, watching sports, and bowling. He played tennis for many years, until his knees finally told him it was time to slow down in his 70s. He continued bowling well into his 90s with the Friday Owls senior league.
Jim is survived by his daughter Patricia (Edward) Eaton of Toano, Virginia; sons Bradley J. (Sheila) Thomson of Castle Rock, Colorado, and Robert S. (Judy) Thomson of Seaford, Virginia; 10 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, MaryBeth, in 2003, and his grandson, Brian McKenny Seward, in 2025.
His was a long life. More importantly, it was a good one.
Funeral services for James K. Thomson will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, Virginia 23601. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 12:30 – 2:00 pm at the same location.
The interment will take place at a later date in Morgan, Utah, at South Morgan Cemetery, 335 S State Street, Morgan, UT 84050. Details regarding the internment will be shared when finalized.