James "Sam" Thompson

FAIRFAX – James “Sam” Thompson, age 77, passed away on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025, at the UVM Medical Center, surrounded by his family.

Born on April 19, 1948, in Sheldon, Vermont, James, affectionately known as "Sam," grew up with a spirit full of laughter and compassion that brightened the lives of everyone around him. A proud graduate of Swanton High School in 1966, Sam dedicated himself to serving his country shortly after by joining the National Guard. In his professional life, he found fulfillment working as a manager at IBM, where his honesty and hardworking nature were admired by his colleagues. Sam was a devoted family man, known for his loving partnership with his wife, Maryann Thompson, whom he proudly introduced as his loving wife of 50 years. Together, they created a nurturing home in Fairfax, Vermont, filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of their family. He valued spending time in his vegetable garden and loved fishing with his grandchildren, where memories were made that will last a lifetime. Sam also enjoyed sugaring in the spring and monitoring the sap flow in the buckets. A passionate supporter of his grandchildren's activities, Sam could always be found cheering them on at little league games, theater performances, and dance recitals. Sam was a longtime member of the American Legion. His distinctive "Thompson blue eyes and dimples" were a window to his generous heart. Those who knew Sam will fondly remember his ability to bring laughter into any situation, often with a clumsy charm that endeared him even further. It is said, “If Sam couldn’t make you laugh, no one could.”

Sam is survived by his wife Maryann, whom he just celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary with; children, Debbie Thompson, Erika Thompson and partner, Jeff Brooks, Jamie Boutin and her husband, Kevin Jr; grandchildren, Christopher Peck, Chester Peck(Jolen), Kimmy Peck, Vicki Scherer, Ashley Scherer(Nathan May Jr.), Elijah Scherer, Summer Boutin, Kamrin Boutin, Bristol Boutin; siblings, Richard (Dick) and wife Sandra, Gary (Gub) and wife Arlene and William Jr. (Turk) and wife Michelle; sisters, Ruth (Ruthie) Laroche and Sandra (Sandy)Giroux and husband Warren; sisters-in-law, Celine Stone and Elaine Thompson; brother-in-law, Darren Sears and wife, Amy; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Sam was predeceased by his parents, William Sr and Lorraine Thompson; brothers, David and Steve Thompson; in-laws, Darwin and Irene Sears; brother-in-law, Allan Laroche.

Friends and family will be invited to Sam’s life celebration to include visitation on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025, from 4-7:00PM at the Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 18th, 2025 at 11:00AM at the Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT. Interment will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery in Fairfax.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fletcher Westford Little League (FWLL) P.O. Box 51, Fairfax, V T 05454

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com