Betty M. Thompson

Betty M. Thompson, age 92, of Durand, Illinois passed away on Friday, April 18, 2025. Betty was born on May 14th, 1932 in Warren, Illinois. Betty lived a life rooted in love, kindness, and quiet strength. In 1954 Betty married the love of her life, Donald E. Thompson Sr. She had a deep and abiding devotion to her family, always putting others before herself. Her children were her greatest pride, and she poured her heart into raising them with care and compassion. That same love extended fully to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply.

Betty had a natural gift for nurturing, whether it was people, animals, or the garden she lovingly tended. Her home bloomed with beauty, warmth, and personal touches, reflecting her eye for detail and her passion for making a house feel like home. Her three daughters inherited that gift and carry it forward with the same grace.

She was an animal lover through and through, often taking in stray or injured creatures and nursing them back to health. Her gentle spirit made her a safe haven for both people and pets alike.

Some of Betty’s favorite moments were spent outdoors camping at Sugar Shores or simply enjoying the peace of her garden. She embraced those simple pleasures and shared them with the ones she loved.

Betty’s bond with her husband, Donald, was one of deep love and partnership. She was his constant companion, even showing up at his tree trimming job sites where she was affectionately known as the “work supervisor.”

Those who knew Betty will remember her as a caregiver by nature, a woman who led with her heart and made the world better just by being in it. Her love will continue to grow in the lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind.

Betty is survived by her children, Patricia (Scott) Krueger, Loretta (John) LaMagdelaine, Sally (Jay) Hoefle, Donald (Jo) Thompson Jr, and David (Cindy) Thompson; grandchildren, Jason, Jeremy, Miranda, Nathan, Travis, Dana, Donald, Shawna, Dillon, Courtney, Rene, and Marie; 14 great grandchildren; sister, Lois Hermann. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Thompson Sr.; siblings, Bob Homan, Bill Homan, Pearl Homan, Daniel VanBuskirk, and Donald VanBuskirk.

A visitation will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 from 1pm until the time of the funeral service at 2pm at Sunset Funeral Home (8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, IL 61115). Burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the working staff at Medina Nursing Home and the caring team at OSF Hospice. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Winnebago Animal Control, Noah's Ark, PAWS or any animal service of your choice.