James Thomson Obituary James Richard Thomsonknown lovingly as Jim, JT, Cricket, Dad, husband, Papa, friend, and so much morepassed away peacefully surrounded by love on Saturday, May 3, 2025. He was 70 years old. A memorial service celebrating Jims life will be held Friday, May 9 at 11:00 a.m. at Centerville United Church of Christ in Centerville, South Dakota. Visitation will be Thursday, May 8 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., also at Centerville UCC. A private burial will be held prior to the service on May 9. Born on September 7, 1954, to John and Nane Thomson, Jim grew up in Centerville, where he developed deep roots, lifelong friendships, and a strong sense of community. He graduated from Dakota State University, proud of his education and the experiences that shaped his early years. Jim married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen C. Blake, in 1975. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and legacy in their hometown of Centerville. Jim began his lifelong career in banking and became a trusted figure in the communitynot just for his professional integrity, but for the warmth and energy he brought into every space he occupied. More than his career, Jims true passion was people. He adored his family and was endlessly proud of his children, Rev. Sarah (Marc) Marshall of Brainerd and Dr. Christopher Thomson of San Diego. His six grandchildrenLucy, Ava, Aubree, Blake, Cora, and Rhyswere the lights of his life, and he was their biggest fan, ever-present with a hug, a bad joke, or ready to play catch. Jim loved golf and was always up for a round with friendsoften ending with storytelling, laughter, and a drink at the 19th hole, and even managed to get a hole-in-one. He cherished time spent at Okoboji, IA, especially aboard the Queen II and good company. A devoted fan of the New York Yankees, the (then) Washington Redskins, the Centerville Tornadoes, and anything Sarah and Christopher or the grandkids were playing; Jim remained fiercely loyal, win or lose. Above all, Jim was known for his overwhelming zest for life. He lived with intention, greeted people with a twinkle in his eye, and never missed a chance to celebrate. Whether it was a game of cards that he would cheat in, a family vacation, or just a Tuesday, JT showed upfully, joyfully, and with all his heart. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Kathy Thomson; brother, John Thomson, Minneapolis, sister, Ann Cole, Sioux Falls, daughter Sarah (Marc) Marshall; son Christopher Thomson; grandchildren Lucy, Ava, Aubree, Blake, Cora, and Rhys; many loving nieces and nephews; and countless dear friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Nane Thomson. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Centerville Area Foundation or to the Queen II in Okoboji, in honor of Jims deep love for his community and his favorite place by the water. To know Jim was to love himand to be loved by him was a gift beyond measure.