Donald Claire Thomson

Donald Claire Thomson, “Don,” age 88, died at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center on Thursday, January 9, 2025 in the presence of his family. Born December 30, 1936 in Morning Sun, Iowa, he was the son of the late Estel and Leota Mae Knight Thomson. He graduated from Kanawha High School in 1955 and attended Iowa State College, graduating in 1960 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Don then moved to Annapolis, Maryland to work at David Taylor Research Center. He worked there until his retirement in 1992. While living in Annapolis, he met Kathryn A. Small (Kay) to whom he was married for 57 years. They had 4 children and moved to the Eastern Shore of Maryland in 1977 where they shared a beautiful home on Kent Island. After Kay’s death, he found love once again with Nancy Hughes Davidson Sutphin. They were married in 2020 and enjoyed 4 wonderful years together. In addition to traveling, they enjoyed playing cards and made many new friends along the way. Don enjoyed traveling and researching genealogy. He wrote several books about his family’s history and traveled far and wide to meet relatives he discovered through his research. He had a special interest in the history of Kent Island and created several hand-made maps showing the early land owners of the Island. He made many visits back to Iowa to catch up with family and friends and classmates from school. He enjoyed sharing photos and stories with everyone he met. Don also enjoyed his canine companions. Don is survived by his four children: Mark A. Thomson of Great Mills, MD, Barry E. Thomson (Debra) of Easton, MD, Laura M. DeConinck (Jeff) of Greece, NY, and Daniel E. Thomson (Elise) of Grasonville, MD; daughter in-law, Katherine E. Thomson of Dunkirk, MD; and son in-law, Thomas A. Ranalli of Batavia, NY; six grandchildren, Stephanie (Randy), Jessica, Cara Mia, Matthew (Holly), Ruthie and Portia, and one great-granddaughter, Jordan. He is also survived by his brother, Lyle Thomson (Orloue), two sister-in-laws: Jamie Woods (Rick); Rita Thomson, and brother-in-law, James F. Small, Jr. (Kelly) and many nieces and nephews. After marrying Nancy, Don was blessed to become part of a second caring and very loving family. He leaves behind his stepchildren Lori Fowler (Robert); and William Davidson IV (Amy) and many step-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his first wife Kathryn A. Thomson, his second wife, Nancy Hughes Davidson Sutphin Thomson, and his brothers, Lowell Thomson, and David Thomson. In remembrance of Don, donations can be made to United Communities Volunteer Fire Company. 9406 Romancoke Rd. Stevensville, MD 21666. A memorial service will be held11AM February 1, 2025 at the Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home, P.A. in Chester, MD, where friends and family may visit beginning at 10AM. Interment will be held privately at Glen Haven Memorial Park in Glen Burnie, MD.

Donald Claire Thomson

December 30, 1936 - January 9, 2025