John R. Thomson

John Raymond Thomson, age 96, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Born on March 27, 1929, in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, to Thomas Ray and Blanch (Krieble) Thomson, John’s life was shaped by integrity, devotion, and service to others. John attended public schools in Kingfisher and graduated from Kingfisher High School in 1947. Guided by a sense of duty and honor, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict, earning an honorable discharge. On December 19, 1952, he married the love of his life, Lillian Claudene Mead, in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. Together, they shared more than 71 years of marriage, a steadfast partnership filled with love, faith, and family. Claudene preceded him in death on January 24, 2024, leaving a legacy of devotion that continues to inspire all who knew them. John dedicated his professional life to the field of engineering and public service. He contributed his talents to Benham Engineering in Oklahoma City and Muskogee, as well as Curry Engineering of Muskogee. Later, he served the City of Muskogee as the Superintendent of Water Treatment and Distribution, retiring in 1991. Committed to continual learning, John studied civil engineering through International Correspondence School in 1960–1961. He was an active member of the American Water Works Association and the Oklahoma Water & Pollution Control Association, earning the respect of his peers across the state. A person of deep faith, John was a lifetime member of the Methodist Church, and at the time of his passing, belonged to the Muskogee First United Methodist Church and the Friendship Sunday School class. His spiritual commitment was matched by his love of family, friends, and community. John’s passions extended beyond his work and service. He found joy fishing the quiet Oklahoma waters, crafting with wood, tending his garden, and immersing himself in a good book. His gentle wisdom and generous spirit enriched every life he touched. Though John Raymond Thomson will be deeply missed, the memory of his steadfast love, service, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Blanch Thomson; sibling, Bill Thomson; sisters-in-law, Colleen Vance and her husband Loyd, Bea Mead and her husband Ron. Left to cherish his memory are his children, Steve Thomson and wife Cristi, David Thomson and wife Penny, Janet Highers and husband Gary, Lori Dillard and husband Keith, all of Muskogee. John’s legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Matt Thomson and wife Dana of Ft. Worth, TX; Ryan Thomson and wife Katy, Braden Thomson, Jamie Singleton and husband Chad, Katie Cawvey and husband Justin, Brandy Galvin and husband Perry, all of Muskogee; Logan Smith and wife Jacqueline of Tulsa; Nick Dillard and wife Alicia of Edmond; Jake Dillard and wife Llyndze of Navarre, FL. He was also blessed with 25 great-grandchildren; as well as six great-great-grandchildren. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, including Kathi Miller and husband Rogge, Joe Thomson and wife Norma, Thomas Thomson and wife Becky, Carol Walker and husband David, Larry Vance and wife Jo Beth, and Jan Mead will fondly remember John’s warmth and kindness. John’s life and legacy will be celebrated at 1:00 PM, Friday, August 1, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church in Muskogee, with Chaplain Cindy Culver officiating.

John R. Thomson

March 27, 1929 - July 27, 2025