Vivian Marie Thomson
July 11, 2024
Fort Montgomery, NY
Vivian Marie Thomson, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 11th at Evergreen Commons Nursing Center in NY at the age of 81. Born in Queens, New York, Vivian’s life journey touched the hearts of many.
She is preceded in death by her husband Jim Thomson, mother Vivian, stepfather George Bollins, father Peter Denis, and stepmother Dorothy Denis. Vivian leaves behind a loving legacy: her daughters Lisa Tonneson-McCorkell (Steve) and Kirsten Tonneson (Todd Lent), stepdaughter Eva Whorley (William), and cherished grandchildren Gabrielle Bernard (Jordan) and Charlie McCorkell.
Vivian’s life was a tapestry woven with diverse experiences. Moving from Queens to Brooklyn as a teenager, she pursued education at Catherine Gibbs Secretarial School. Her career began at Royal Typewriter, where she worked for several years while married to her first husband, Dave Tonneson, until the birth of her first daughter. She dedicated herself to raising her two daughters in Fort Montgomery, NY, while working part-time from home for Surrey Cadillac Company doing client billing. Later, she founded and managed Tonneson Transportation, chauffeuring high school students and forming meaningful bonds with them. Vivian’s last job before retirement was at the Desmond-Fish Public Library in Garrison, where she was surrounded by her love of books and fostered lasting friendships.
Vivian’s passion for community involvement was boundless. She actively engaged in local initiatives, serving on the Highland Falls Library Board, mentoring as a Girl Scout leader, and contributing to the Fort Montgomery United Methodist Church’s board.
In her later years, Vivian found unexpected joy in her relationship with the late Jim Thomson. They settled in Campbell Hall, finding solace in nature’s tranquility and the company of family. Despite facing the challenges of dementia in her final year, Vivian received comfort and support from dedicated aides and her dear friends MariAnn Whorley, Irma Lent, Doris Lent, and Pat Polhemus, who visited often to ensure she was surrounded by love and care.
Vivian’s vibrant spirit, marked by her genuine connections and unwavering commitment to her community, will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, love, and dedication will be remembered fondly and cherished deeply.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 27th at 10:00 AM at the Hudson Highlands United Methodist Church, located on Route 9W in Fort Montgomery, NY
In honoring Vivian’s memory, the family requests donations to the Orange County Arboretum in Montgomery, NY, a place that held a special place in Vivian’s heart. As she rests in peace, may her legacy of love and community dedication continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.