Jerod Ward Thompson

Jerod Ward Thompson, 54, beloved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away August 27, 2026, following a courageous 10-year battle with brain cancer, surrounded by his loving family.

Jerod was born on March 17, 1972, in Bountiful, Utah, to Charles Henery and Sharon Lyons Thompson. He graduated from Weber High School in 1990, having attended Sunset Elementary, West Weber Elementary and Wahlquist Junior High.

Jerod had a memorable childhood growing up in West Warren. He loved raising animals, building forts in the old barn, and having adventures. Losing his dad, Charles, at 11 was a major event in Jerod’s early life.

Jerod had a mischievous side and was a natural prankster. He loved to make people laugh and was always ready with a joke, a funny story, or a well-timed prank. Making people laugh was one of the ways he connected with others.

One of the greatest challenges Jerod faced in his life was the heavy burden of addiction. Substance use disorder is something Jerod navigated and worked to overcome throughout his life.

In October 1994, Jerod married Heather Casey in the Lion House in Salt Lake City, Utah, and later divorced. They were blessed with two beautiful children, Riley Nickolas and Sharon E. Thompson.

Jerod tried his hand as an entrepreneur starting and running his own business selling jerky in multiple locations and had his own store in Hanksville, Utah near Lake Powell. He loved making it his own with funny signs with a flare.

In 2014, Jerod married Jenni Hartog in Syracuse, Utah. Together, they made their home in Pocatello, Idaho, where they lovingly worked to restore a darling home in Old Town Pocatello. Jerod was incredibly proud of the home they created. They were blessed with a son, William Brent Thompson.

In January 2017, Jerod was diagnosed with brain cancer. His diagnosis changed the course of his life, but it never took away his determination, sense of adventure, or love for the people around him.

Although Jerod and Jenni divorced, Jerod found purpose and joy in helping raise his young son with Jenni in Southern Idaho. He had no greater joy than spending time with his children. Jerod made his final home in American Falls, a place that he deeply loved. He made close friends and was loved by everyone as he devoted his life to helping others around him.

Throughout the years that followed, Jerod faced countless challenges with courage and perseverance. Even with a severe disability he was industrious trying to bring in extra income as an Uber driver and then delivering groceries for Walmart.

Jerod loved camping, fishing, and spending time outdoors. If there was an opportunity to fish, he was there. Fishing wasn't simply a hobby for Jerod—it brought him peace, happiness, and precious time with the people he loved.

One of Jerod's final wishes was to return to Potter's Pond and fish one more time with his family. On August 3, 2026, he was able to fulfill that wish. With a forest fire burning nearby, Jerod spent a precious day at the place he loved fishing with his family. We will be eternally grateful to the rangers who made it possible for him to be there despite the evacuation orders. Jerod caught the biggest fish of all and watched his children each catch fish. This event will be a cherished memory forever in our hearts.

Jerod was also known as something of a dog whisperer. Every dog he ever owned was completely devoted to him. He had a special way with animals, and they seemed to understand and love him just as much as he loved them. He related to dogs better than most humans.

Jerod worked in several construction fields throughout his career, including Dome Technologies, Hunt Electric, and Peter Kiewit and Sons. He was a hard worker and took pride in what he did. Along the way, he made many friends. He was the kind of person people remembered.

Jerod was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He had a generous heart and a deep desire to help others, especially those who were disabled, struggling, or down on their luck. He was willing to give his last dollar to someone in need and often did. Helping others was simply part of who Jerod was.

Jerod truly loved his family. He is survived by his three children, Riley (Adriana) Thompson, Sharon (Derek) Higson, and William Brent Thompson; two grandchildren, McKinley and Swayzee; his mother, Sharon, and stepfather, Ray Meibos; his sisters, Terrie (Bryan) Daybell, Shawna (Brady) Young and Linda (Jim) Dix; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Thompson; his stepfather, Bill Hudson; his grandparents; and, his loyal beloved dogs, Leena and Pepper.

Jerod will be deeply missed. His adventurous spirit, generous heart, mischievous sense of humor, love of the outdoors, and unwavering determination will remain with us in the memories we carry forward.

The family gratefully thanks Huntsman Medical Center, Howard Coleman, MD, Neuro Oncologist and his amazing staff, and Symbii Home Health and Hospice who provided excellent treatment, hope and peace.

At Jerod’s request immediate family will gather for a private viewing before the cremation at Russon Mortuary, in Syracuse, Utah. On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 10:30 am there will be a graveside service for all those who wish to attend at the Roy City Cemetery located at 5200 South 2300 West, Roy, Utah to bury his final remains and celebrate his life.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary & Crematory YouTube Channel and on this obituary below.