Glenda C. Thompson, 84, of Rockford passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, January 26, 2021. Glenda Cramer was born in Coleta, Illinois, the middle child in a family of three girls. Her father worked at Northwestern Steel & Wire and her mother was a homemaker. Until Glenda was about 25 years old, she lived in Rock Falls. At the age of 18, she got married to Richard Thompson. Three of their children, Tom, Rick and Brenda were born in Sterling. Then in 1961, the family moved to Rockford, where they had three more children, Donald, Connie and one lost early in miscarriage. Glenda’s former husband died in 2002. Glenda worked at Bergner’s department store for 13 years before going into home healthcare services.
Glenda was very much a people person. She loved to visit and talk with friends. Her least favorite activity was doing housework. Music was always a big part of her life and as many knew, she had a beautiful singing voice. Glenda did say she had wished she had learned to play the piano. Cheetos and chocolates were named as Glenda’s favorite junk foods, although she said she rarely indulged in those when she decided to take better care of her health. The most exciting moment in her life was when her first child was born and her greatest accomplishment was raising her children. Glenda spent her spare time crocheting and sewing, either for her grandchildren or herself. The best advice she could give you was “never give up, always keep trying.” Glenda’s neighbors at Greencastle of Bienterra praised her for her kindness and willingness to help. She would describe herself as “happy-go-lucky.” Since she was the first resident to move into the building, she knew and enjoyed everyone.
Survived by her children, Tom (Pam) Thompson, Rick Thompson, Brenda (Jeff) Morris, Donald (Shannon) Thompson, Connie Franklin; grandchildren, Jonathan Thompson, Jeremy (Alycia) Thompson, Justin (Erica) Thompson, Nick (Sammi) Thompson, Erick Powell, Derek Morris, Hannah Thompson, Clariesa Thompson, Brandon Thompson, Dante Franklin, Tyre Franklin; great-grandchildren, Max, Siena, Norah, Ivy, Carolyn, Iris, Eloise Thompson, Carly Powell, Eva Thompson, Madilyn Thompson; great-great-grandchildren, Treyveon Thompson, Aariz Franklin; sister, Ruth. Predeceased by her parents, sister, Jeanette.
Celebration of Life Private Family Memorial Services were held at Creekwood Baptist Church, 7281 Olde Creek Rd, Rockford, IL. Cremation Rites have been accorded. Inurnment at a later date.
Matthew 5: 16 – “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
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