Ms. Velma Mildred Thompson

It is with fond memories that we reflect on the life of Velma Mildred Thompson, who was called to rest on Thursday, August 23,2012. She served our Lord, her family, community, and especially her church with devotion, distinction, and dedication. Velma Mildred Thompson was born to parents Sarah and Robert Thompson on October 10, 1913 in Brownsville, Tennessee. She was the fourth of four children: Alma Woodlin, Bishop Thompson, and Willie John Thompson who have all preceded her in death. She attended elementary and high school at Haywood County Training School, graduating with the distinguished honor of "Best All-Around Student." She went on to acquire a B.A. Degree from Lane College and a Master's Degree in Education from Tennessee A. & 1. State College. She was a tireless educator of 44 years retiring in 1978 from the Haywood Board of Education. She enjoyed playing the piano, traveling, entertaining, cooking, and welcoming others in her home. She'd also played a mean game of checkers. Sister Thompson didn't like grass growing under her feet, so she proceeded into God's vineyard, servicing friends and the community. In her retirement years, she enjoyed volunteering at LeBonheur Health Care Hospital, Jackson Parks and Recreation Department (Senior Service Center), and served as the board secretary of West Tennessee Legal Services. She held membership in the Jackson Area Council on Aging, and received a five and ten-year services pin from HCA Regional Hospital of Jackson, Tennessee. As President of the Retired Teachers Association of Brownsville, Tennessee, the first RTA Handbook for Haywood County Teachers Association was published during one of her three terms. She also served as President of the Brownsville Helping Hand Club for several years. She was a faithful member of Maranatha Seventh-day Adventist Church where she served as Sabbath school teacher, missionary leader, church clerk, pianist, treasury assistant, member of the deaconess board, women's ministry, and choir member. While she had no children of her own, she was a mother to many. When she would see a child in need, help was on the way. Her family is especially grateful for the sacrifices she made on their be-half. For she found it her duty and her pleasure to help raise nieces and nephews; making sure they earned degrees of their own, including one of which she adopted. Velma Mildred Thompson is survived by her daughter Sherrell Farmer (Derryle), grandchildren Cameron Farmer and Camille Farmer, niece Juanita Thompson (Eugene), great niece Clarice Thompson (Shaunne), great niece Diedre Thompson (Malik), great nephew Anthony Thompson, great-great nieces Shanee' Sullivan and Niccole Thompson, great-great nephews, Wesley Sullivan and Christopher Thompson, and many cousins and friends.

Ms. Velma Mildred Thompson

October 10, 1913 - August 23, 2012