Mary Thompson

Mary Ann Thompson, age 87 years, former long-time resident of Niles, Michigan died on Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at her home in Baroda, Michigan following an extended illness.

She was born on July 20, 1925 in South Bend, Indiana to Benjamin M. and Esther C. (Cranston) Hance and lived in Berrien County all of her life. She was graduated from Niles High School in 1943 where she was recognized as a proficient vocal musician, a talent she enjoyed the rest of her life. She was employed for many years at the former Thayer’s Jewelers in Niles.

Mary Ann was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Niles. She was also a member of the Ladies’ Reading Club in Niles, and as a young mother was an adult volunteer to the local troops of the Girl Scouts of America.

On March 28, 1947 at Trinity Church she married James E. Thompson with whom she celebrated the fifty-eighth anniversary of their wedding prior to his death on March 26, 2006. She was also preceded in death by her brother and sister, T. C. Hance and Dare Downey.

Surviving family includes their children, Janis D. Thompson of Baroda, Thomas James (& Kathryn) Thompson, U.S.Navy - Retired of Allegan, Michigan; and Gayle A. (& Edward Armstrong) Thompson of DeWitt, Michigan; granddaughter, Megan Dare Thompson, and great-grandchildren Kayla and John; many nieces and nephews; and a special long-time caregiver, Shawna Kelley.

Services for Mary Ann Thompson will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 27, 2012 at Trinity Episcopal Church with The Reverend James Slack officiating. Interment will be at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles.
The family will receive relatives and friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the church.

Contributions in memory of Mary Ann may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, or Hospice at Home, or the Berrien County Cancer Service. Arrangements were made at the Halbritter Funeral Home in Niles.