Will L. Thompson

Birth Year: 1847
Death Year: 1909

Will Lamartine Thompson (1847–1909) was an American hymn writer, composer, and music publisher who became widely known for several beloved gospel songs. He was born on November 7, 1847, in East Liverpool, Ohio. From an early age Thompson showed strong musical ability and developed a deep interest in writing songs. His parents encouraged his education, and he later pursued formal musical training, which helped shape his career as both a composer and lyricist.

Early in his career Thompson attempted to sell his songs to a commercial music publisher. When his work was rejected, he decided to establish his own publishing business. This decision proved successful and allowed him to retain control over his music. In addition to publishing songs, he later opened a store where he sold pianos, organs, and sheet music. His work as a publisher helped distribute his hymns widely across churches and homes in the United States.

Thompson was known for his habit of writing down ideas whenever inspiration came to him. He believed that a songwriter should capture every thought that might become a song. He once explained that whenever a musical idea or lyrical theme came to him, whether at home, in a hotel, in his store, or while traveling, he would immediately write it down in verse so that it would not be lost. This disciplined approach contributed to the large number of hymns and gospel songs he produced during his lifetime.

Among Thompson’s best known hymns are “Jesus Is All the World to Me,” “Lead Me Gently Home, Father,” “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling,” and “There’s a Great Day Coming.” These songs became widely sung in revival meetings, evangelistic services, and church gatherings. “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling” in particular gained lasting popularity because of its gentle message of Christ’s invitation to sinners to come in repentance and faith.

Thompson was both the author of lyrics and the composer of music for many of his hymns, which gave his work a unified character. His songs often reflected the simple and heartfelt style that became characteristic of late nineteenth century American gospel music. They emphasized themes such as salvation, repentance, the hope of heaven, and the loving call of Christ.

Later in life Thompson traveled in Europe with his family. During this trip he became seriously ill, and the family returned to the United States earlier than planned. A few weeks after returning home, he died on September 20, 1909, in New York City. He was buried in Riverview Cemetery in East Liverpool, Ohio.

Will L. Thompson’s hymns remain an important part of the gospel song tradition. His music continues to appear in many hymnals and is still sung in churches around the world. Through his songwriting, publishing work, and dedication to gospel music, Thompson made a lasting contribution to Christian worship and devotional song.