James A. Thompson passed away peacefully on January 23, 2010 at Lompoc Hospital. After numerous health issues that Jim fought with dignity and courage, he peacefully slipped away into the arms of his Lord to live forever.

James Allen Thompson was born on September 2, 1940 in Denver, Colorado to James Walker Thompson and Violet Lee Thompson. James is survived by his son, Mark A. Thompson and wife Leandra, of Long Beach California, a daughter, Lori A. Thompson of Lompoc, California, and one Granddaughter, Terra R. Thompson, 7 of Lompoc. He is also survived by his childrens mother and best friend, Judy A. Lougen of Lompoc.

James graduated from high school in 1958 in Bakersfield, California, shortly thereafter joining the U.S. Air Force, serving his four years at Vandenberg. James worked for Mr. Paintman, a local business, before becoming employed by the City of Lompoc. During this time James met and married his wife, Judy. They had two children, Mark and Lori and continued to watch and enjoy them grow up. James enjoyed camping and tinkering with old trucks. He also loved old movies, especially westerns.

As the years passed, Jim relocated to Arkansas, working for Allen Canning Co. for a number of years. For health reasons in 2000, James relocated back to Lompoc to be close to family and friends.

For the passed 10 years James enjoyed playing on his computer and visiting with old friends. James was a simple quiet man with a big heart and quirky sense of humor, you never knew what would come out of his mouth to make you laugh.

In 2002, Jim was blessed with a beautiful granddaughter, Terra, she was the light of his life. He loved spending time with her and having special moments of eating ice cream and laughing together. Their time together was the best time of his life. He made numerous momentos to and for her that will be cherished for a lifetime.

James strength and will to never give up and love of live was an inspiration to all of us. James will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but we know he will never be far away, he will always be in our hearts, and we know someday we will all be reunited again in that wonderful heavenly home in the sky.

Our family wishes to thank all involved in the concern and care of James. We thank everyone for the visits, flowers, cards, phone calls and emails; each and every thought and prayer was greatly appreciated. We wish to thank Dr. Andersen, Dr. Sinkaset and all the nurses and staff at Lompoc Hospital for taking such good care of our loved one. A special warm thank you goes out to Tina, the ICU nurse who went over and above her duties to make us feel comfortable during this very difficult time.

Last, but certainly not least, a very warm loving thank you for all the ladies and gentlemen of Casa Serena Apartments for the wonderful luncheon and tribute paid to James. Their special words and sharing of memories of James was the best. You will always hold a special place in our hearts for the love and friendship you showed to James over the years. Words of thanks can never be enough to tell you how much this meant to our family.