James Alton Thompson

James Alton Thompson, 88, of Williamsburg, VA passed away on July 20, 2026. Born September 14, 1937 in North Carolina, he was preceded in death by his parents, James and Viola Thompson; two sisters, Margaret and Ann; and his brother, Hillery.

James proudly served in the U.S. Army before beginning his career in construction. As a heavy equipment operator, he helped build many of the interstates in Virginia, North Carolina, and Maryland including 64, 664, 95, 295, 81, and Highway 12 in OBX.

James couldn’t wait to retire so he could sit on his porch and rock. He loved fishing and his grandchildren, especially dancing for them. He was a jokester who could make people laugh, but most importantly—he was a man who loved his family.

James is survived by his wife, Georgia Z. Thompson; children, Judith Lynne Richardson (James) and James Mitchell Thompson (Suzanne); grandchildren, Stephanie (Tim), James “Bud”, Alyson, Kevin, Elora, Megan (Edward), and Michael; great-grandchildren, Amelia, Ellison, and Madelyn; and his brother, Tommy Thompson (Shelby).

A visitation will be held from 1:30-2:00 PM on Friday, July 24 with a service to begin at 2 PM at Nelsen Funeral Home, Williamsburg, VA. Interment to follow at Williamsburg Memorial Park, Williamsburg, VA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hospice House of Williamsburg, 4445 Powhatan Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA (williamsburghospice.org).