Rinse and sort the beans, soak if you want but not necessary. Set aside the seasoning packet to add later.
Place the beans, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and ham(hambone if using) in a 6-quart slow cooker.
Cook on HIGH for 4-6 hours or LOW for 8-10 hours, until beans are done.
Take out the ham bone if using, and clean any remaining meat off of it to add just the meat back into the soup.
Stir in the tomatoes, seasoning packet, and salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through.