THOMPSON, Jill Marie Thompson

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jill Marie Thompson, the heart and backbone of our family, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Jill was the toughest, proudest, most fiercely loving mother and grandmother anyone could ever hope for. For 48 years she was the devoted wife and best friend of Doug Thompson, the love of her life. Together they built a home filled with laughter, hard work, and unconditional love.

Mom raised four boys who adored her, Mark Douglas Thompson (Karen), proud parents of Acelynn and Bryce. Daryl Edward Thompson (Crista), proud parents of Cooper, Annabelle and Carter. Bryan Roy Thompson (Lisa), proud parents of Hayley and Anthony. Gary Andrew Thompson (Cheryl Ann), proud parents of Brooke and Myles. She will be greatly missed by her large extended family, whom loved her dearly.

She was our rock, tough as nails, quick with a hug or a well-timed scolding, and always the first one there when any of us needed her. Everything she did, every long day and sleepless night, was for her family. Her four boys were her pride and joy, but her nine grandchildren were her entire world. She loved them with a fierce, gentle love that made each one feel like they were her favourite (and somehow they all were).

Jill lived for family gatherings, holiday dinners, weekends around the campfire, and watching the grandkids run wild in the yard or at the campsite. Few things made her happier than loading up the trailer, heading to the lake or the woods, and spending days (or weeks) camping with her crew- rum and Coke in hand, laughing by the fire, telling stories, and making memoires that will last us all a lifetime. She cheered louder than anyone at every choir rehearsal, fall fair ambassadors competition and so many school plays, but she was never more at home than under the stars with her family. Her kitchen was always open, her advice was always honest, and her arms were always ready for one more hug. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, loyalty, and love that will live on in every one of us. We were so lucky to be hers.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Jill’s life will be held in the spring. Until then the family requests that you raise a glass of rum and Coke -just the way she liked it- to the strongest woman we’ve ever known, or consider making a memorial donation to Centre Grey Health Services Foundation in her memory.

We love you, Mom. We’ll make you proud every single day- and we’ll keep camping in your honour.

Online Condolences and tributes available at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca