Barbara A. (Zagata) Thompson

COLUMBUS, OH—Barbara Ann Thompson passed away peacefully October 17, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio, at the age of 84, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. A deeply beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and passionate advocate for the international community and for peace, her warmth and kindness touched lives around the world.

Barbara was born in Dearborn, Michigan, the eldest of eight children, to Stanley and Lottie Zagata. After graduating from Immaculata High School in 1959, she began her career working for Buco. In 1963, she married the love of her life, David Thompson. The couple established deep roots in the Columbus area, moving to Upper Arlington in 1973 before settling in Dublin, Ohio, where they raised their large family.

A Legacy of Love and Service

Barbara devoted her life to creating a nurturing and expansive home. She and David raised seven children and famously welcomed a steady stream of international students into their home, turning their family into a global network.

Her Polish heritage was a source of great pride and joy. She treasured her family above all else, marking time by annual family reunions in Michigan and lively holiday gatherings that cemented connections with her sprawling extended family.

Barbara’s dedication extended far beyond her home and into the community, driven by a profound commitment to peace and intercultural understanding. She was a tireless volunteer, focusing much of her energy on connecting Columbus with the global community. Her efforts were instrumental in the local chapters of the United Nations Association and the International Visitors Council. She passionately supported Ohio State University and, notably, was a driving force behind the creation of the Peace Garden and Cherry Blossom Festival, leaving a tangible legacy of beauty and international friendship in Columbus.

A faithful parishioner, Barbara was an active volunteer at St. Andrew’s, St. Brendan’s, and St. Brigid of Kildare churches during her years in the Columbus area. Barbara truly never met a stranger. Her vibrant spirit, open heart, and unwavering commitment to hospitality and community leave an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Family

Barbara was preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, David Thompson, and her siblings Fred Zagata and Theresa Stanek.

She is survived by her seven children: daughters Debra (Jim Masdea) and Jenni (Brett), and sons Steve (Karen), David (Jackie), Michael, Jeff, and Jamie(Jami).

She also leaves behind her siblings Stan, Virginia (Larry Dunnivant), Ray, Len (Anita), and John (Liz); in-laws Stan Stanek, Dory Lamont, and Sylvia (Cliff) Martin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Barbara was the adoring grandmother to 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, who were a source of immense joy and light in her life. She leaves behind a large circle of friends and family who will remember her dearly.

Please join the family for a celebration of Barbara’s life:

• Sunday, November 2nd at Schoedinger Funeral Home, 6699 N High Street, Worthington, OH 43085

Memorial: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Eulogy and Storytelling: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• Memorial Mass: Saturday, December 6th at St Kenneth's Catholic Church, 14951 N Haggerty Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170

Mass: 10:00 AM Graveside service following at St. Hedwig’s Cemetery & Mausoleum, 23755 Military Rd, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127

In lieu of flowers, honoring Barbara’s spirit of kindness and global harmony can continue through donations to the Peace Garden Barbara Fund, by using the link on this tribute page, and by volunteering in support of the organizations she loved.