Elizabeth Marie Thompson

Redding, CA

Elizabeth (Lisa) Thompson passed away peacefully on Sunday from complications after a recent fall. She was just two weeks from her 92nd birthday. As a devout Catholic, Lisa found peace in the Church and her passage was timely; on Easter; a beautiful Spring day.

Lisa was born in Pennsylvania in 1924 and grew up in eastern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey with her sisters Dorothy and Joan and her brothers, Edward and Ronald. After graduating from high school she worked at American Cyanimid during World War II, and married Thomas P. Kelly in 1944. The young couple lived in Pennsylvania, Texas, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington Oregon, and California while raising their family. In early 1961 they moved to Redding and began a radio station, KAHR. Afterwards, she worked as a travel agent and later at the Shasta Union High School District office until her retirement.

In 1971 she married Arthur K. Thompson and they traveled the world, entertained friends, and were active in many civic organizations. Her favorite trip was the voyage to Europe on the QE II. Lisa's life was enriched by many friendships through St. Joseph's Church. She was a long-time volunteer for the Redding Police Department and also volunteered as a Pink Lady at Mercy Hospital. In addition she enjoyed playing bridge, belonged to Catholic women's organizations, worked with charities, and dearly loved the long-term close friendships with the Monday Prayer Group and with a group of wonderful women who called themselves the Lunch Bunch.

Lisa is survived by her sister, Joan Fine; and her three children, Tim Kelly, Kate Ellis (Dennis), and Gerry Kelly (Laurie); grandchildren, Jennifer Iveson (Josh), Derek Ellis (April), Jason Kelly (Mandi), Sarah Reindel (Jamie), Brendan Kelly (Elizabeth), Caroline Kingsley (Steve), Alanna Gottfried (Oliver), Bob Poli (Karen); 16 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews on the East Coast.

Friends are invited to attend her memorial mass on Wednesday, April 6th at St. Joseph's Catholic Church 2040 Walnut Ave., Redding at 11 o'clock. In lieu of flowers a donation to St. Joseph's School or your favorite charity would be appreciated.

Arrangements under the direction of McDonald's Chapel, Redding, CA.