James Allan Thompson

James Allan Thompson — known affectionately to those who loved him as Jim, Jimmy, Dad, Pops, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa — of Vista, California, was welcomed safely into Heaven on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the age of 96. He passed peacefully at home with the love of his life by his side and surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

Jim was born Leonard Allen Davenport on May 31, 1930, in Mishawaka, Indiana, to Eva Maude Davenport (Thompson) and James M. Davenport. During his youth, he attended schools across Oregon and California, graduating from Orosi Elementary in 1945 and completing high school in the Central Valley before pursuing further coursework at Norwalk Adult Center, Long Beach State, Cerritos College, and Long Beach Tech.

A proud veteran, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy in December 1947. He served with honor as an Electrician’s Mate Third Class aboard the USS Kermit Roosevelt (ARG-16) and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal, Navy Occupation Medal, and China Service Medal prior to receiving his honorable discharge in December 1951.

Following his military service, Jim built an extraordinary 28-year career in aerospace manufacturing with North American Aviation / Rockwell International. Beginning in December 1953 as a utility man, Jim’s exceptional work ethic, leadership, and technical skill propelled him steadily through the ranks—serving as a machinist, leadman, manufacturing liaison, and supervisor—culminating in his promotion to Department Manager in December 1981, where he oversaw operations with hundreds of employees working under his guidance. In addition to his aerospace career, Jim was known for his sharp mind with numbers, successfully operating Thompson Tax Service on the side—a venture that proved especially fateful, as it was through his tax business that he first crossed paths with the love of his life, Lillian.

Years after first meeting, life brought Jim and Lillian back together in a new chapter of life. Lillian quickly became the absolute center of Jim’s heart, blossoming into a profound love and unwavering devotion that lasted the rest of his days. He expressed this deep devotion through handwritten poems penned especially for her, capturing their shared moments, gentle walks, and the beauty of their life together in words that his family will treasure forever. Their enduring love story was the foundation of their blended family—a lifelong partnership built on hard work, laughter, deep companionship, and unconditional support. They found immense joy in every season of their life together, from peaceful mornings spent side by side to hosting a house full of grandchildren. Jim's profound love for Lillian was evident to everyone who knew them, setting a beautiful example of lasting love for generations to come.

Jokingly called an “Old Navy Goat”, Jim was truly the "GOAT" (Greatest of All Time) of his family. Jim had a genuine passion for the outdoors and the simple joys of life. He loved fishing, camping, hunting, gardening, cheering on the San Diego Padres, and sharing a bowl of ice cream. With a pond right in his backyard, he made sure a fishing pole and worms were always ready whenever a grandchild or great-grandchild wanted to make another cherished memory with Grandpa.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Lana “Loni” Elaine Sahebi, and his parents, Eva Maude Thompson and James M. Davenport.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lillian Thompson; his children, Michael “Mike” Thompson Sr. and Sandra “Sandy” Beilby; the children he gained and loved through his marriage to Lillian; his many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a large extended family and many friends whose lives he deeply touched.

Service Information

• Celebration of Life: A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the family home in Vista, California. Further timing and details will be shared as the date approaches.

• Family Group Chat & RSVPs: To help the family coordinate seating, food, and event updates, please join our family memorial group chat or contact Donna Shannon to RSVP:

https://groupme.com/join_group/116885492/N2AzRzJx

or

Call/Text Donna Shannon @ (760)224-2630

• Share Photos & Memories: Family and friends are warmly encouraged to share favorite stories, memories, and photos of Jim for the memorial displays directly in the group chat or by contacting the family.