– Alfred Thomson
– Levittown
– Jones Beach stalwart
– preservationist
– dies at
– 72
– exclude
– numbers
– word.

Alfred Thomson, Advocate for Landmark Preservation, Dies at 72

Alfred Thomson, a prominent figure in the preservation of landmarks across Hempstead Town and a former supervisor at Jones Beach State Park, passed away on January 28 at the age of 72. His husband, Joshua Soren, confirmed that Thomson died from heart failure at Mt. Sinai South Nassau Hospital in Oceanside.

A Life Lived in the Shadows

Soren revealed that he and Thomson had spent much of their lives together living discreetly in Levittown, where they were often mistaken for close friends. Growing up in the 1950s, both men faced the challenges of being gay in a society that largely rejected homosexuality. In that era, the local newspaper reported on police raids targeting the LGBT community in Cherry Grove, a popular destination on Fire Island.

Thomson and Soren both dated women in high school, conforming to societal expectations at the time. However, as the years passed, attitudes began to change, and gay bars like Pal Joey’s and Equus became gathering places for the LGBTQ+ community on Long Island.

A Passion for Preservation

Alfred Peter Thomson was born on August 5, 1951, in Oceanside. He graduated from Island Trees High School in Levittown and went on to study German at Queens College. Thomson and Soren initially met through a mutual acquaintance and began dating on January 21, 1974. Their connection was immediate and enduring.

Both Thomson and Soren shared a deep interest in historic preservation. Thomson served as the president of the Wantagh Preservation Society and was a trustee for 25 years. Together with Soren and others, he helped establish the Levittown Historical Society. Additionally, Thomson advocated for stronger landmark laws in Hempstead Town, where Soren currently serves on the Landmark Preservation Committee.

A Multifaceted Life

Thomson’s contributions extended beyond his work in preservation. He played the organ at a local Jewish temple, taught German at Berlitz and Long Island Lutheran High School, and served as the president of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church council in Levittown. He was also an avid gardener, known for his green thumb and the exotic plants he cultivated, including a lemon tree and bamboo.

In 1997, Thomson began his tenure at Jones Beach State Park, initially working at the Castles in the Sand exhibit. Over the years, he took on various roles within the park, including working at the canvas shop and serving as a night watchman before being promoted to tolls. He retired in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service.

A Love That Withstood the Test of Time

Although New York legalized gay marriage in 2011, Thomson and Soren chose not to apply for a marriage license out of consideration for Thomson’s mother. After her passing, they finally tied the knot on May 2, 2016, in a beautiful ceremony officiated by Nassau County Judge Anthony Paradiso. Thomson’s sister, Carol D’Agostino, hosted a celebration for the couple.

Thomson’s broad range of interests and talents impressed those who knew him. He was fluent in multiple languages, played several musical instruments, and was known for his warm and friendly demeanor. His annual Christmas singalongs for the Wantagh Preservation Society became beloved traditions, showcasing his love for music and community.

A Lasting Legacy

Alfred Thomson is survived by his husband, Joshua Soren, and his sister, Carol D’Agostino, along with six nephews. A wake will be held at the Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Home in Levittown on Sunday, with visiting hours from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. On Monday, friends and family will gather at the funeral home before Thomson’s burial at Greenfield Cemetery in Uniondale.

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– Alfred Thomson Levittown Jones Beach stalwart preservationist
– Alfred Thomson Levittown Jones Beach preservationist.