Barbara Ann Thompson

Barbara Ann Justice Thompson, lovingly known to many as Mammy'o, passed peacefully on October 11, 2025 surrounded by her family. Born on November 28, 1937 in Garwood, WV to Pearl and Daniel Justice, she was the youngest of her mother's five children, but her father's only child and was the apple of his eye.

She graduated from Pineville High School where she was an exceptional student heavily involved in extracurriculars. During her Senior year alone, she was a Flag Girl, Attendant to the Queen, served as Vice President of Sr. Tri-Hi-Y, was elected Class Treasurer, and was a member of the National Honor Society, where she also served as Treasurer.

After graduation she married her high school sweetheart, E.L. "Tommy" Thompson on June 12, 1956. Their only child, Elizabeth, was born in September of 1959. In the early 60s, Barbara and Tommy settled in Jacksonville, FL where they raised their little family and planted roots.

Barbara retired from the appeals division of the IRS in 1993 following 35 years of service.

For nearly 60 years, she was a pillar of Murray Hill Presbyterian Church serving in a variety of capacities. She was a Sunday School Teacher, pouring into hundreds of elementary age children throughout her time in that role. She was ordained as an Elder in 1989 and served on several Sessional Committees. She was elected Clerk of the Session in 1994 and served in that position for nearly 30 years. She was involved with the Presbyterian Women as an active circle member, serving as Chair and Co-Chair. Additionally, she helped lead Vacation Bible School classes and worked in the kitchen for years.

She also volunteered at her granddaughter's schools, putting her love of books and reading to use in the library. She volunteered for years with Meals on Wheels with her good friend Vicki Theilacker.

An avid sports enthusiast, there was always a race or game on the TV: football, basketball, baseball, or softball, she cheered for them all. The Miami Hurricanes were her love, much to the chagrin of her granddaughter Tara and many friends. This sweet little Christian lady could get very spirited about her Canes during football, basketball, or baseball/softball season. She kept up with all of her favorite players and could've hosted a sports talk show.

But her joy was her granddaughters. Their relationship was much closer than the typical grandmother-granddaughter relationship. It wasn't uncommon for people to mistake the girls for her daughters. Even family and friends would misspeak from time to time. This led to a special relationship with her great-grandchildren. She was so proud of each one individually and thought they were each the most wonderful and special gifts, just like their mothers. If she loved you, you were perfect in her eyes.

She was predeceased by her precious daughter, Elizabeth Ann Thompson Finn, her parents, siblings, and best friend.

She is survived by her husband E.L. "Tommy" Thompson, her granddaughters Tara (David) Long and Ami (Alex) Pomeroy, a bonus granddaughter Kaitlyn Finn, and her great-grandchildren Mason and Aubrey Long and Rocco Pomeroy.

She is also survived by her nephews Jeffrey Thompson, Riley (Michelle) Thompson, William Thompson, Larry (Janet) Townley, Richard (Susan) Townley, Everett Townley, and John (Carolyn) Ellison and nieces Jennifer (Bob) Plymale, Susan Keener, Patricia (Jess) Bolen, Barbara (Wayne) Bladen, and Lisa Ellison, many great-nieces and nephews, as well as great-greats.

Barbara was blessed with close friends that were more like family: Kristi and Bill Finn, good neighbors: Linda (Lavelle) Goff, Sandra Walters, and Pedro Ramdas, and her former-son-in-law: Mike (Catherine) Finn.

She lived a quiet life and her impact wasn't always apparent, but her gentleness, patience, and listening ear were what was so often needed. She lived a life of service, humility, and devotion.

There is little doubt that her life was well done and that the Lord has welcomed home his good and faithful servant.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 25th, at 11:00 AM followed by a funeral service at 12:00PM at Hardage Giddens Riverside Funeral Home 7242 Normandy Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32205. Internment will take place at 1:00PM at Hardage Giddens Riverside Memorial Park 7242 Normandy Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32205.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals On Wheels of America, in honor of Barbara.