Helen W. Thompson

Helen Willis Thompson passed away peacefully on December 23rd at Canterbury Court, surrounded by her family, at the grand age of 103. She was born and raised in the Atlanta area now known as Virginia-Highland to Charles and Effie Willis, who had seven children: three boys, Ralph, Charles and Bob, and 4 daughters, Helen, Willie, Rosie and Berta, who all preceded her in death. She graduated high school from Girls High and then married Edwin Thompson. They had a daughter, Lynn Magee, a son, John Thompson, four grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren.

Helen spent most of her time raising not only her two children, but also all of their friends who loved to spend time at her home in Buckhead, when Buckhead was in its infancy. What a great mother and friend to all her children and grandchildren. They loved her dearly, and came to her for advice on just about everything.

After raising her children, she loved to travel, garden, and serve as a “Pink Lady” at Piedmont Hospital to support nurse care for all patients. She was a member of Northwest Presbyterian Church and later became a member of Christ Church of Atlanta where she attended regularly with her Canterbury Court friends. She was the oldest living person at Canterbury Court, where she resided for more than 20 years. She had a lovely caregiver, Trina Ross, who became her good and trusted friend as well as a part of the Thompson family. “Nana” had a tremendous love in her heart and touched everyone she met with her bright, infectious spirit and smile. She will truly be missed.

There will be a private family memorial held at Canterbury Court to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.