Fred Hayward Thomson

Rev. Fred Hayward Thomson

February 1, 1938 – July 25, 2025

Rev. Fred Hayward Thomson, age 87, of Easley, South Carolina, was called home to be with the Lord on July 25, 2025. Born February 1, 1938, on the island of Guam, Fred lived a life marked by deep faith, and devotion to his family and community. In August, he and his high school sweetheart, Jane, would have celebrated 65 years of marriage—a testament to a life lived with love, and grace. Together, they built a family rooted in faith and service.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Fred served his country with honor before answering a calling to ministry. As a faithful pastor, he devoted his life to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, guiding others in their spiritual walk, and offering comfort and hope to all who crossed his path. His heart for the Lord and for people never wavered. Fred was also known by his passion for amateur radio, W3BKR, through which he built friendships and shared endless hours of engagement across the airwaves.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Fred Thomson, and his cherished daughters, Mary and Lisa.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jane; his daughter, Beth Smith (David); his son, Gary Thomson (Janice) and sister, Mary Illinski ("sis"). He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Kate Buhr (Scott); Morgan Farmer (Ryne); Jason Smith; Kyle Gutschow (Emily); and Brian Smith. He was a great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren: Elliot, Benjamin, Grant, Luke, and Anna Jane.

Fred would want his passing to be one final opportunity to share his faith in Jesus Christ and the eternal hope found in Him. Fred was an engaging and memorable personality, never meeting a stranger. His life was a living testimony to that hope—and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched with kindness, wisdom, and truth. 

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 9:30 AM until 10:45 AM at Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Rd, Easley, SC. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM in the chapel with burial in Robinson Memorial Gardens.

Memorial gifts may be made to Camp Creek Baptist Church's Mission Fund, 116 Camp Creek Road, Central, SC 29630.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.