Paul Heber Thompson's Obituary
Paul Heber Thompson passed away at home in Odessa, Florida, on February 26, 2023. He was born July 10th, 1960 in Provo, Utah to Heber and Vicki Thompson. He was preceded in death by his father, Heber, nephew, Chase, father and mother-in-law, Gene and Avis Waters, and brother in law, Steve.
Paul is survived by his wife, Marilyn, their children Matthew (Ana) and Kelsie (Chris) and four grandchildren, Noah, Lucy, Henry, and Jack. Extended family members include 7 brothers and sisters, 21 in-laws, 53 nieces and nephews, and 9 great nieces and nephews.
Growing up, the family moved several times and Paul enjoyed each new area and made friends easily. The family eventually returned to Utah where Paul graduated from Lehi High School in 1978.
Paul was a good student and his education was very important to him. He loved sports, both observing and participating, and was very athletic. He enjoyed playing basketball, soccer, and golf.
Paul served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 1979 to 1981. He developed a love for the Argentine people and all Hispanic people that only deepened over the years. He used his knowledge of the Spanish language throughout his life in business and church responsibilities. He was a lifelong fan of Argentine soccer.
After his mission, Paul returned to school and eventually graduated from Brigham Young University with a master’s degree in accounting. He began working for Grant Thornton in 1985. He stayed with the firm for 33 years before retiring in 2019.
On December 1st 1987, Paul was sealed to Marilyn Waters in the Washington, D.C. Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They lived in Utah for 5 years and welcomed a son, Matthew, in 1989, and a daughter, Kelsie, in 1992. At the end of that year, the family moved to Tampa, Florida.
Paul served in various church callings: clerk, Bishop, High Councilor, Young Men president, and primary teacher, and was serving as Stake President before falling ill in May of 2021. He was a dedicated servant of the Lord, and put forth his best effort in all he did. He loved everyone and showed that love in his service.
Paul loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle. He had a sincere interest in each family member and what was happening in their lives. He loved family activities, reunions, and other events.
Paul had been retired for just less than two years before he became ill, and loved every minute. He spent time with family and relished the decrease in stress after a long, demanding career.
He had a love for life and enjoyed traveling, going to ball games, and working on his golf game. He found joy in simple things. He was always happy and positive. He was well-liked for his personality and respected for his uncompromising integrity.
Paul had a deep testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and lived a life full of faith. There is no doubt that faith carried him through the last twenty two months of his life. He had a sure knowledge of life after death and the reality of eternal families.
What’s your fondest memory of Paul?
What’s a lesson you learned from Paul?
Share a story where Paul's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Paul you’ll never forget.
How did Paul make you smile?