Helen Thompson

Helen L. Thompson, age 87, of Jackson, MI, walked peacefully into the loving arms of her Savior on April 29, 2025. Helen was born at her family home in Jackson, Michigan, on July 13, 1937, to the late J. Russell and Mildred (Ludlow) Lines.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Derald Thompson. She is survived by her five children: Brian P. (Renee) Thompson of Lapeer, MI; Karen R. Hamblin of Jackson, MI; Stephen D. (Kathy) Thompson of Troy, IL; Martha S. (Paul) Gray of Littleton, CO; and Carla V. (Mark) Wilson of Ossian, IN. She is also survived by her sister, Virginia (Bill) Tooley of Jackson, MI. She leaves behind 15 cherished grandchildren: Erin L. Siders, Melissa (Ryan) Gray, Becky (Paul) Tiret, Todd Stanton, Stephanie (Jason) Hicks, Cari (Darin) Corrie, Ryan (Amy) Thompson, Heather (Philip) Mickelson, Amber (Mike) Barr, Matthew (Bonnie) Gray, Kayla (Jeremy) Leadem, Danica (George) Pappas, Dylan Thompson, Daniel Thompson, and Audrey Thompson; 21 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and many loving nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her siblings: Donald (Judy) Lines, Ruth (Earl) Oppel, and Claire (Pat) Lines.

Helen dedicated her life to caring for others, both as a nurse at Foote Hospital and Vista Grande Villa, and as a faithful servant in her church and community. She was a long-time member of Spring Life (Howe) Wesleyan Church in Parma, where she found great joy in worship and fellowship. Helen enjoyed quilting, sewing, knitting, working puzzles, and playing games. Her homemade dinner rolls were famous among family and friends, and she lovingly shared her talents by teaching her grandchildren and “adopted” grandchildren how to sew and knit. Helen also had a passion for travel, especially visiting family and hiking in the mountains of Colorado.

A celebration of Helen’s life will be held at 11 am on May 2, 2025, at Heart of the Lakes Church, Jackson Campus, 5225 Clinton Rd, Jackson, MI. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 5-8 pm, May 1, 2025, at the Watson Funeral Chapel, 2590 Spring Arbor Road, Jackson, Michigan 49203 Pastor Mark Wilson will officiate the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Spring Life Wesleyan Church or The Gideons International.

Helen’s legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.

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