Lovina Thompson

The Mass of Christian Burial for Lovina (Lehman) Thompson, 85, a resident of Independence, Missouri will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 31, 2013 at the Church of the Resurrection, 4910 N. Woodlawn, Wichita, Kansas. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery, Wichita. A Rosary and visition will be held at the Church of the Resurrection on Monday, December 30 at 7:00 p.m.

Lovina was born November 25, 1928 in Conway Springs, Kansas, the daughter of Andy and Mattie Lehman. She died peacefully on December 22, 2013 in Independence, Missouri.

A consummate mother and homemaker, Lovina was an excellent cook and enjoyed preparing abundant meals for her family and friends. She delighted in trying new recipes found in her many cookbooks and cooking magazines. She relished planting and tending a yearly garden. She was a sports fan and attended games and watched football and baseball on TV.

Lovina had an Amish upbringing and as all Amish children, received only an 8th grade education. She married Charles A. Gatson in 1949 and together they had four children. Upon his death in 1975, Lovina provided for her children while working to receive a GED. Upon earning her GED, she continued her education and became a Licensed Practical Nurse. She was an excellent example of determination and will to succeed for her children and friends alike.

In 1985, Lovina married Charles C. Thompson. They spent 28 wonderful years together. She and Charles were enthusiastic dancers, and every Saturday night they could be found with a host of friends dancing at the American Legion. Because Charles is a proud World War II Veteran, Lovina became interested in the American Legion Women's Auxiliary. She spent many hours participating in various service activities for our US Veterans.

Lovina was predeceased by her first husband, Charles A. Gatson. She was also predeceased by her daughter Charlesa Lowell, her parents Andy and Mattie Lehman and her sister, Anna Miller. Lovina is survived by her loving husband, Charles of the home, daughter Regina (Bill) Smith of Shawnee, Oklahoma, son Michael (Laura) Gatson of Centerview, Missouri, daughter Hope (Thai) Phan of Wichita, Kansas, step-daughter Cindy (Mark) Kelsey of Seattle, Washington and step-son Larry (Sarah) Thompson of Mexico, Missouri. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.

Lovina lived her life with beauty and grace, always putting the needs of others before her own. She was a bright star in the lives of her friends and family, well loved by everyone who knew her. She lived fully, she loved whole-heartedly, she died peacefully.