Will L. Thompson was an American composer and hymn writer, best known for his contributions to Christian music in the late 19th century. He was born in 1847 and became widely recognized for his ability to create melodies that resonated with congregations. His most famous work is the hymn “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling,” which remains popular in many churches today. In addition to his hymn writing, Thompson was also involved in music publishing and worked to promote the use of hymns in worship. His legacy continues through the enduring popularity of his compositions, which are often sung in religious services across various denominations, including Methodism and Baptist.