Mary L. Thompson

Mary Lee Thompson was born on January 4, 1943, to Tom and Ada Hollinshead.  They raised her to know and trust in Jesus.  Both parents preceded her in death.

In 1947, the family moved from Starkville, MS to Chicago.  Mary attended Hayes, Grant and Bidler elementary schools, and later graduated from Marshall High School.   She attended Northern Illinois University for one year, and then two years at Wright Junior College.

Mary and her mother eventually joined the Greater Union Baptist Church under the pastorage of the late S.H. Graham.  Her father joined many years later.  Mary served in many capacities at Greater Union. She served as Sunday School teacher, choir member, office assistant, Trustee, pastor’s secretary, Children’s Church director and BTU teacher. She served wherever she was needed, to advance God’s kingdom.

Mary began working as a teenager. As an adult, her final employment was at the American Osteopathic Association, where she worked for forty years until retirement.  She praised God for the education and training that she received through the years.  Her work ethics, discernment, and skills lasted for decades.  She traveled extensively and maintained her Christian integrity wherever she went.  After retiring, Mary often reflected on her life.  Again, she praised God for the many diverse people who impacted her life in so many inspiring ways.  Nothing compared to the wonderful memories of being blessed by a “Great Big Wonderful God.”

In August 1964, Mary wed Lee V. Thompson.   Two sons were born to this union: Scott and Mark.  She took motherhood very seriously and trusted God for their well being.  Becoming a grandmother and then a great-grandmother brought her great joy.

On April 15, 2026, the Lord God called Mary home from labor to rest.  

She leaves to mourn: her sons, Scott (Barbara – deceased), Mark (Sabrina), five grandchildren, Elizabeth (Stephen), Catherine, James, Eric and Victoria; two great-grandsons, Ernest and Myles; two god-children, Andre and Lindsey; two special cousins, Elizabeth Ward and Mildred Bailey, “like a son”, Freddie Bogan, “bonus grandchildren” Shanicka, Michael (deceased), Fantasia and Henry;  a loving church family, many dear relatives, and a host of loving friends.

“The path that I have trod has brought me nearer God, through it often led through sorrow’s gate.  Though my way I might choose, in my way I might lose, the joy that waits for me.”

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary L. Thompson, please visit our floral store.