San Diego, CA — Tom Wilson James, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026.

Tom was born on August 29, 1938, in Bingham Canyon, Utah, the eldest of three children born to Earl and Esther James. He graduated from Bingham High School in May of 1956, beginning a life marked by dedication, leadership, and hard work.

While visiting near his Grandma James' home on Creek Road, Tom met the love of his life, Sharon. Their relationship grew through years of shared time with family—including many double dates with Tom's parents—before they were sealed in marriage in the Salt Lake Temple on November 22, 1957.

Tom and Sharon began their family life in Salt Lake City, where they welcomed five children. In 1974, they relocated to Poway, California, where they welcomed Elsie to the family.

A man of deep faith, Tom was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully as Bishop of the Poway First Ward for many years. Alongside his church service, Tom built a successful career as a real estate developer, with a particular focus on the development of the Sorrento West area.

Above all else, Tom's greatest joy was his family. He was a loving and devoted husband and took immense pride in his role as a father and grandfather. An avid skier, Tom created lasting family memories during countless winter weeks spent together at the family's Deer Valley home.

As their children grew older, Tom and Sharon embraced their love of travel, exploring destinations throughout Europe, North America, Central and South America, and the Middle East—always eager to experience the world together.

Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon; his parents, Earl and Esther; two great-grandchildren; and his sister, Donna. He is survived by his children: Mark (Michelle) of Carlsbad; Todd (Janice) of San Diego; Paul of Eagle Mountain; Elsie (Victor) of Flagstaff; Kristen (Rebecca) of San Diego; and Neil (Tonya) of Atlanta; 18 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Susan (Jay) of Syracuse.

San Diego Funeral Service

Monday, February 9, 2026 at 11am

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel

15750 Bernardo Heights Parkway

San Diego, CA 92128

Salt Lake City Celebration of Life

May 17, 2026
4:00-7:00 PM
Twenty and Creek

2050 Creek Road

Sandy, UT  84093