Judith L. Thompson

Born July 24, 1942, in New Albany, Indiana, to the late Raymond and Mary Jane (Hardin) Arnold. Judy Lee Thompson passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 10, 2025.

"JuJu", as her family affectionately called her was a remarkable woman — strong, loving, and fiercely devoted to her family and community. She faced life’s hardships with courage and grace, and her warmth left a mark on everyone who knew her.

After the tragic loss of her son Mark to a drunk driver before Nathaniel was born, Judy turned her heartbreak into action. She founded the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), working tirelessly to support other families and make her community safer. Her compassion and determination were an inspiration to all.

Judy had a heart for children. She began volunteering at her children’s elementary school, eventually becoming the head lunch lady, where her kindness and humor brightened the days of countless students. Later, she worked in the Special Education department at the New Albany-Floyd County school system’s administration building, touching lives with patience, care, and dedication until her retirement.

Family was everything to Judy. She adored her children — Mark (always remembered), Angela Loesch and her husband Andrew, and Nathaniel Thompson and his wife Dana. She was the proudest grandmother to her four grandchildren, Chase, Callie, Temperance, and Luna. She celebrated every achievement, every milestone, and cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. She had a signature charm, always fashionably late to family gatherings, but never missing a chance to share her love, laughter, and wisdom.

Along with her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Thompson, and her brother Mike Arnold.

Judy’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and generosity of spirit. She taught us how to stand strong, care deeply, and find joy in the simple moments of life. She will be forever missed, forever loved, and forever in our hearts.

A visitation for Judy will be held Monday, September 15, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Kraft Funeral Service, 708 E. Spring Street, New Albany, Indiana 47150. Funeral service will occur Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 11:00 AM, in the Kraft Funeral Chapel. Judy will be laid to rest in Kraft-Graceland Memorial Park.