Elsie Olliemae Thompson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Elsie, who was cherished by many, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024, in her hometown of Austin, Texas, where she also first saw the light of day on May 14, 1948.
Elsie was the daughter of the late L.B. Ward and Ollie Lucille Woods, and she grew up in a lively household with her siblings. The family bonds she forged in those early days laid the foundation for the loving, gentle, and thoughtful person she would become.
It was in Austin that Elsie also met her soulmate, Larry Thompson. They wed on a beautiful summer day, June 6, 1967, and their union was blessed with two wonderful children, Stephanie Jones and Larry Thompson Jr. Later on, Elsie's family grew to include her cherished grandsons, Dontre Thompson and Larry Thompson III, who brought immense joy to her life.
Elsie's educational journey saw her graduate from Regan High School, a milestone that marked the beginning of her dedication to serving others. She spent many years nurturing the young minds at the University Church of Christ Daycare, touching the lives of numerous families in her community. After her time in childcare, Elsie turned her passion for beauty into a career, retiring as a boutique beautician after 30 years of making others feel and look their best.
Throughout her life, Elsie's love for her family was evident to all who knew her. She was a pillar of strength and a source of unwavering support for her loved ones. Her gentle spirit and thoughtful nature made her the heart of her family, and her absence will leave an irreplaceable void in the lives of those she touched.
Elsie was predeceased by her loving husband, Larry, her parents, her sisters Enda L. Ross and Gertie Ward, and leaves behind a legacy of love that will be carried on by her children, grandsons, brothers L.B. Ward, Jr., Raymond Ward (Sylvia), Shackie Ward, Eddie James Ward, and John Ward, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Each one carries a piece of her spirit, her love, and her teachings. The impact she made on their lives is immeasurable and will continue to be felt for generations to come.
