James R. Thomson of Delhi, a tireless advocate for the advancement of Delaware County, passed away Dec. 6 at 78, leaving behind a legacy defined by passion, innovation, and community spirit. Known for his unwavering dedication to the county’s growth, Thomson spent his life supporting businesses, agriculture, and tourism, championing a vision that honored Delaware County’s roots while embracing its potential for modern success, all with great humor and tireless enthusiasm for the place he called home.
Born and raised in Delhi, Thomson was a staunch believer in the value of agriculture and its role as the backbone of the community. He celebrated Delaware County’s agricultural heritage and worked diligently to promote agricultural businesses. At the same time, he was a forward-thinker, always seeking out innovative businesses that could enrich the local economy and create opportunities for residents.
Thomson’s enthusiasm extended to tourism, which he viewed as a vital component of the county’s prosperity. He advocated promotion of the area’s natural beauty, local attractions and cultural offerings, recognizing that tourism supported businesses large and small. His efforts inspired a cohesive vision for Delaware County as a destination that welcomed visitors while fostering community pride.
A man of diverse passions, Thomson found joy in the roar of engines and the thrill of open-wheel racing. His visits to Watkins Glen with his track buddies were among his most cherished pastimes. Beyond the track, Jim LOVED Syracuse University college basketball. He had season tickets and from late November through March, everyone around him knew both the mens’ and womens’ scores and stats.
Thomson’s greatest devotion was to his family. He shared many years with his wife, Nancy, and took immense pride in his daughter, Brenda. His granddaughter, Abby, was the light of his life, and he often spoke of her with boundless affection. Rarely a day went by when Jim was not (rightfully) bragging about Abby’s academic accomplishments and her world travels and future career plans. The world, Jim made sure, was her oyster.
Thomson’s commitment to his neighbors and his friends was evident in his countless acts of service. He volunteered with local organizations and businesses that aligned with his values, offering his time, wisdom, and unwavering support to causes that strengthened the community he loved.
Ray Pucci, president of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, and Jim Thomson were longtime friends. Reflecting on Thomson’s profound legacy. Pucci described Thomson as a transformative figure who “changed the trajectory of this county,” particularly in the face of challenges posed by New York City’s watershed regulations in the early 1990s.
Thomson is remembered by Pucci as one of the few people who understood the significant impacts watershed regulations would have on Delaware County and its future.
As chairperson of the county chamber of commerce’s board of directors, Thomson mobilized local leaders and citizens to push back against restrictions for future development.
“The city and state of New York would have rolled over this entire region, and Jim didn’t allow that to occur,” Pucci said. “That’s going to be part of his legacy—the idea of local communities coming together to say, ‘This can’t happen.’”
Thomson’s advocacy extended beyond regulations. He was instrumental in addressing the impacts of New York City’s land acquisition program, tirelessly traveling with maps to illustrate its effects. He also spearheaded the creation of the Catskill Development Foundation and later the construction of the Delaware County eCenter. “The eCenter wouldn’t exist without him,” Pucci said. Opened in 2007, the eCenter provided a vital resource for local businesses and entrepreneurs at a time when reliable internet access was scarce.
In his role as chairperson of the Delaware County Industrial Development Agency, Jim was instrumental in the start of many new businesses, the revival of others and a savior to some - like Amphenol in Sidney. Following devastating flooding in 2011, the IDA and the county’s economic development department were able secure grants and low-interest loans for one of the county’s largest private-sector employers to relocate from a flood zone and remain operating.
Amphenol was special to Jim, not just because of its status as a cornerstone of the business community, but because his mother worked there; taking the train from Delhi to Sidney to work in the factory when it was known as Bendix and Scintilla, a manufacturer for aerospace and military industries.
Jim was very interested in maintaining and building upon the county’s manufacturing base, colleague Glenn Nealis, director of the county’s economic development department, said; and “... was passionate about our agricultural industry and the potential of small businesses to positively impact the community.”
“In everything he did, his one motivation was doing what he thought was in the best interests of Delaware County,” Nealis said.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Thomson had a multifaceted personality. Pucci fondly remembered their friendship, which included trips to Watkins Glen for open-wheel racing. Jim was an amateur race car driver.
“I remember going to Watkins Glen and white-knuckling it around the course with him,” Pucci said, of just one of the many experiences he had with Thomson, personally and professionally.
“And during March Madness, you didn’t see him — he was glued to Syracuse basketball,” Pucci said.
But the subject that lit up Thomson most was his granddaughter, Abby.
“I think I’ve only met her once, but I could tell you almost as many stories about Abby as I could about my own granddaughter,” Pucci said with a laugh.
Thomson was also unafraid to challenge the status quo.
“Sometimes his advocacy wasn’t well-received by the established power structure,” Pucci said.
While Thomson left a legacy of sustainable initiatives, he was also a staunch advocate for structural change in county government.
“He was the biggest cheerleader for business and community development,” Pucci said. “Anyone who spent time with Jim came away with a story.”
“I am going to miss his good counsel,” Pucci said, speaking for many who knew him.
Jim Thomson was a lot of things to a lot of people. Depending on whether you knew him as “Jim,” “Jim-Bob,” “JT,” or “Mr. Thomson,” defined your relationship with him. Over the last 50 years, his significant impact on Delaware County will not be forgotten.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of hope, innovation, vision and a deep love for Delaware County. His family, friends, colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing him will remember his kindness, determination, and vision for a thriving future. As the county moves forward, it will continue to benefit from the seeds Jim Thomson planted and the example he set.
