James Thompson

1951 - 2025

James Edward Thompson

1951-2025

On Monday, December 8th, 2025, Jim Thompson passed away peacefully in Montgomery, NY at the age of 74. James Edward Thompson was born October 19th, 1951, in Salt Lake City to Marjorie and Harold Thompson. He often shared stories about the early days in the valley, surrounded by mountains and fields, getting into mischief with his siblings, hunting with his dad and brothers, and fixing up old cars. He especially enjoyed camping trips while a member of the Boy Scouts, where he earned his God and Country Award and various merit badges. Jim knew the best spots for camping, fishing and hiking, with many family trips spent in the high Uintas at Mirror Lake, fishing the Green River and Strawberry Reservoir, or river rafting in Moab. Sharing his favorite places in Utah with family and loved ones brought him true joy.

Jim graduated from Granger High School in 1969, then continued his studies at Westminster College, receiving a degree in Economics and, later, a Masters of Business Administration. He was an extremely talented skier and raced on the Westminster ski team, pursuing one of his greatest passions and enjoying intense victories. Jim also proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1972–1974 as a Military Police Officer at Ft. Leavenworth, KS. He spent most of his professional career with Fidelity Investments, where he worked for over 20 years. He retired from the State of Utah as a tax auditor in 2021.

On June 1st, 1985, Jim married Denise Ramirez and they shared 40 years of marriage together, raising three wonderful children and recently becoming grandparents to Jane Lilly, born October 4th. He was so excited to be "Grandpa T," like his dad before him.

Jim was an amazing father and role model to his children, and consummate provider for his family. He never hesitated to share hard-earned life lessons and wisdom with his kids which, while sometimes met with a groan or an eye-roll, more often than not was spot on. He shared advice such as "if it is to be, it is up to me," and "measure twice, cut once," or his own silly, made-up sayings. Although he had his moments of grumpiness, he also had a knack for getting a laugh out of his family with a goofy dad joke or outrageous song that he would make up on the spot. He endlessly supported his children's extracurricular pursuits, never missing a dance recital, basketball or football game. Many hours were spent shuttling to rehearsals, practices and games; he loved watching his kids doing what they loved. Even in his absence, his unwavering support and presence as a father and husband remains.

Jim loved music; Neil Young, Pink Floyd and the Eagles were among his favorites but he also liked smooth jazz and being introduced to new artists and tunes by James and Dan. Whether on road trips in the car or lounging around the house, music was always playing in the background; his favorite songs will keep his memory close.

Jim is survived by his wife Denise, sons James Jr. (Helen) and Daniel (Taylor and grandbaby Jane), mother Marjorie Thompson (Orion) Sherwood, brothers Dave (Melanie) and Paul (Aun), sisters Carol (Brad) Hale and Mary English, and their families. He was preceded in death by his dad Harold in 1989, and his daughter Jenifer Elizabeth Simondi in 2020. The family finds great comfort believing that he is with them now watching over us.

We will gather in Jim's memory on Sunday, January 18th, from 2:00-4:00pm at the Three Fountains East Clubhouse at 982 East 4960 South in Murray, Utah. This will be an "open house" (no formal service or program is planned), where we look forward to sharing memories of Jim with loved ones and friends.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating in Jim's memory to your local animal rescue, or a hospice organization of your choosing.