Rosemary “Rosie” K. Thompson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2023 in her home in Austin, TX at the age of 94.
Rosie was born in Dallas, TX on July 29, 1928 to John and Valeska Keir. She attended the University of Texas at Austin where she studied Applied Art but loved to claim that she and her best friend Mary Jo had so much fun that they majored in “campusology” instead. It is no surprise that she channeled her mirthful and creative spirit into becoming an artist, and she always viewed the world through the lens of what would be the most fun to paint. After graduating, she married the love of her life, Luther W. Thompson Jr. on April 14, 1949. They were together for over 71 years and had three children: Michael, Victoria Anne, and Melanie. They also developed deep friendships with Randy Bryza and Janie Barth who were regarded as a son and daughter #3.
Rosie loved spending time with her family and friends, painting, photography, reading, and shopping. Her watercolor paintings are easily recognized by their vibrant colors, quirky abstract patterns, and bold personalities. She is survived by her granddaughter Jessica Murray, her daughter Janie Barth, her brothers Robert and David Keir, her nieces Jane Marie Keir, Sharon Patry, and Susan Doggett, and nephew Cirus Keir. She will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rosie’s favorite charity in her honor: Central Texas Children’s Home.
