James "Jimmy" David Thompson

Our beloved, James “Jimmy” David Thompson, age 70, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 28, 2026. He was born October 8, 1955, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida to Harry Thompson and Dovie Jenkins Thompson and was the twelfth of thirteen children. Jimmy grew up in Walton County until his family moved to Los Angeles, California. After Jimmy graduated high school, his family moved back home to Florida. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and soon after he was selected for the “Below the Zone” program.  He was successfully promoted early for his superior performance. When his father was killed, Jimmy came home to help take care of his mother and brother, Larry. He settled in Santa Rosa Beach where he built his own home and lived close to them. Later, he married his wife, Jeanell. Along with Jeanell’s two sons, Tommy and Jason, they became a family. Jimmy and Jeanell also shared a daughter, Lisa. When Jimmy’s mother passed away, he became Larry’s guardian and it was an honor for him to do so. The family moved to Panama City and lived there for 26 years. Jimmy worked very hard during his life, and after retirement God led the family to a small farm in DeFuniak Springs. The farm was a little piece of Heaven on earth which he thoroughly enjoyed for 10 years. Jimmy tended the land, grew plentiful gardens, cared for animals, harvested honey, built new structures, fished, hunted, made wonderful friends, created special memories, and simply enjoyed God’s creation.

Jimmy followed Jesus and served Him in many ways throughout his life. He was an excellent provider and family man. He shared a special bond with his daughter and absolutely adored his grandchildren and poured his life into them. Without hesitation, he assisted others when there was a need to be met. He was a skilled carpenter and blessed others with his ability to fix just about anything. He was devoted to serving in the Church and taught Sunday School. He was generous with his time and loved to share with others.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents; stepson, Tommy Broxton; sisters, Havolene Stanley Whoolery and Linda Thompson; and brothers, Hubert Stanley, Willard Stanley, Walden Stanley, Kenneth Stanley, Baby Stanley, Herman Thompson, Buddy Thompson, and Baby Thompson.

Jimmy is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jeanell Williams Thompson; daughter, Lisa Marie Thompson Goody; son-in-law, Brandon Goody; step-son, Jason Broxton; brothers, Larry Thompson and Tony Thompson; grandchildren, Haley Mooney and her husband, Justin, Taya Goody, and Jayden Goody; great-grandchildren, Tommy Mooney and Benny Mooney; and numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and extended family and friends.

Jimmy will be hugely missed by his family and the many friends he made. It is with profound sadness we say “see you later” but with great joy we celebrate his entrance into God’s Kingdom.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 4, 2026, in the chapel of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home, 1474 State Highway 83 North, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32433, beginning at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Dan Newton, and Pastor Roy Carroll officiating.  A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.  Committal will follow at Thompson Cemetery in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Military honors will be provided by the United States Air Force.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins of DeFuniak Springs.