Damon Blaine Thompson

In Loving Memory of Damon Blaine Thompson

 May 9, 2004 – September 14, 2025

It is with profound sorrow and deepest respect that we announce the passing of Firefighter and EMT Damon Blaine Thompson, age 21, of Concho, Arizona. Damon was tragically killed in the line of duty due to an accident that occurred while bravely serving the community he loved. Born on May 9, 2004, in Show Low, Arizona, Damon is a cherished son of Daniel James Thompson and Shellie Watt Thompson. 

Raised in Concho, he attended Concho Elementary and graduated from St. Johns High School in 2022. From an early age, Damon was drawn to service, aspiring to follow in the footsteps of his older brother and hero in the fire service. He began his journey with the Concho Fire Department’s Junior Firefighter Program, where his leadership and passion were quickly evident, eventually leading him to oversee the program temporarily. Damon continued his education at Northland Pioneer College, earning his Firefighter I & II certifications. He served with unwavering dedication alongside the Concho Fire Department, Pinetop Fire Department, Snowflake/Taylor Fire Department, and Timber Mesa Fire. As a certified EMT and mentor to aspiring young firefighters, Damon was admired not only for his skill and professionalism but also for his compassion and unwavering positivity.

A man of many talents, Damon was a gifted musician who played guitar, piano, ukulele, and was learning the banjo. He also aspired to learn the bagpipes to play alongside his fellow firefighters. When he wasn't serving his community, Damon could be found outdoors—camping, hiking, or exploring the forests near Green’s Peak. He cherished time spent woodcutting with his brothers and father, climbing trees, and building elaborate tree forts. 

Damon was also a prankster, relentlessly teasing his siblings- especially his brothers Danny and Jaden. A rockhound at heart, Damon treasured the time he spent with his late grandfather, David Cyril Watt. Above all, Damon was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and fiancé. He lit up every room with his humor, gentle spirit, and boundless love for life. He adored taking his nieces and nephews on jeep rides and never missed an opportunity to tease them lovingly or share in their laughter. His loyal dog, Mia, was never far from his side. Damon’s final message to his father, shortly before his passing—a simple, heartfelt “Hi, just wanted to tell you I love you”—will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his loving parents, Daniel and Shellie Thompson; his siblings, Daniel (Gloria) Thompson, Ashton (Alex) Castruita, Sunnie (Justin) McCray, Jordana (Tanner) Meador, Jaden Thompson, and Adrian Thompson; his beautiful fiancée, Brianna Franklin; 16 nieces and nephews who adored their “Uncle Damon”; his grandmothers, Pauline Hamilton and Marcine Watt; and many extended family members, friends, and fellow firefighters.

He is preceded in death by his grandfather, David Cyril Watt, his grandparents Joseph Blaine Thompson and Eula J. Thompson, and his uncles, Joseph D. Watt, and J. Rob Thompson.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 A.M Saturday, September 27, 2025 at the Show Low High School Auditorium, 500 W. Old Linden Road. A private graveside service will follow for Damon’s family and fellow firefighters.

Damon gave his life in the service of others—a true hero, whose courage, humility, and selflessness will never be forgotten. A special thank you to Timber Mesa Fire and Medical, especially C-Block (Damon’s crew) for their tireless service to the Thompson family. Also, to the entire community for the outpouring of love, donations, and meals provided to the Thompson family.