James David “Jim” Thompson Jr., 77, passed peacefully at his home in Bavon, Va., on Friday, July 10, 2026, after a long illness.
He was born in 1948 in Sioux City, Iowa, to parents James Sr. and Adah. He graduated from Deep Creek High School, completed courses at Old Dominion College, served in the U.S. Navy and Reserve, and spent 39 years at Newport News Shipyard in carrier overhaul and then engine room design for the Ford-class carriers.
He never missed an episode of Jeopardy!, loved all boats (especially tall ships) and was a loyal member of the Citizens for the Common Good. Almost every Saturday, Jim and Gina would have breakfast in town and then spend the day visiting the Farmers’ Market and perusing the shops.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Gina; his brother, Joel; children, David Thompson, Kate Hatfield (Mitch), and John Thompson, as well as all of his beloved pets.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers and staff of Riverside Cancer Center, Home Health and Hospice, as well as Mathews Volunteer Rescue Squad.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Faulkner Funeral Homes, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, which assisting the family.