February 9, 1951 – November 7, 2026
Karen Gay Thompson, age 75, of Riverview, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
Born in Tifton, Georgia, on February 9, 1951, Karen was a woman defined by her deep faith, feisty spirit, and unwavering love for her family.
She lived life with determination and heart, and she never met a stranger—her open heart and welcoming nature instantly made everyone she met feel like family.
Karen had a lifelong love of music and enjoyed joining in whenever she could alongside her husband and church community. She was a fantastic cook who loved feeding those around her, and over the years, she found immense joy in raising and caring for several horses. She was also an active volunteer with Paws for Friendship alongside her beloved therapy Australian Shepherd, Belle, bringing comfort to many in the community.
Karen was preceded in death by her father, Tula Lee Gay; her mother, Catherine White Gay; and her brother, Dennis Lamar Gay.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Earl Thompson, Sr.; her sons, Thomas Earl Thompson, Jr. and Brent Trevor Thompson; and her brother, Harley Gay. She leaves behind a cherished legacy through her four grandchildren, Alexis Nicole Thompson Laxon, Hannah Thompson, Hailey Thompson Carrillo, and Landon Reece Thompson; as well as her great-granddaughter, Vera Rose Carrillo.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Gibsonton.
The family will receive friends during visiting hours from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, with the service beginning at 1:30 PM. Interment will follow at 3:00 PM at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens.
