James Ray Thompson

Our beloved James Ray Thompson, lovingly referred to as Jim and Papaw by family, passed away on Tuesday, March 21, 2023. He was an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather during his incredible 85 years of life. Jim was born on July 10, 1937 in Hayesville, North Carolina. He was the youngest out of 7children. He was 19 years old when he married the love of his life, Margot Thompson, on May 18, 1957 in Neu Isenburg, Germany. Together they had two children, James R.Thompson II (Jimmy) and Kathie M. Thompson.

Some of his greatest joy came from his children, three grandchildren (Kristina, Joshua, and

James), and three great-grandchildren (Khloie, Sire, and Khylieahna). They created many memories while enjoying trips as a family.

He took an active role in the lives of his grandchildren. Teaching them how to drive and always sharing advice on life skills. He always said, "Think before you speak." And taught us priceless lessons to carry throughout our lives. Jim had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He was often spending his spare time researching topics of interest or reading books. At the young age of just 17 years, Jim joined the United States military. He served a long and rewarding 30 years in the Air Force and honorably retired as a SMSGT. Immediately after military retirement he joined Boeing and worked for an additional 14 years. He also worked for AWACS, Al Salam, and NATO. Jim was never scared to take on new opportunities and did everything with honesty and integrity. He had very strong values and was well liked by everyone, mostly due to his positive energy. Jim had incredible patience and was a practical joker with a generous heart of gold, never hesitating to help people out. His legacy will carry on forever reminding us that we control our attitudes. We choose to live a life of meaningful acts full of love and service. He shared this same love with his community of friends, professionals, and acquaintances spanning across the globe. He touched the lives of so many people and he will truly be missed and will never, ever, be forgotten.

Visitation will be held at Sunny Lane Funeral Home & Cemetery, 4000 SE 29th St, Del City, OK

73115 on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

There will be a Celebration of Life funeral service on Thursday, April 6, 2023, from 2:00 PM to

3:00 PM to honor him. Following services, the family will escort Jim to Arlington Memory

Gardens at 3400 N Midwest Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73141.

The remembrance dinner will take place at 3905 SE 29th St, Del City, OK 73115 at 4:30 PM to honor his memory by bringing family and friends together.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunnylanefuneralhome.com for the Thompson family.