Berenice Leon Thompson, 95, passed on to her heavenly home, while at Sonshine Manor Nursing Home (Republic) on December 27, 2010. She was born June 21, 1915 to Austin and Irene Ballance in Shannon County, Mo.
Berenice married Gerald D. Thompson on March 20, 1937. To that union were born two children, daughter, Glodeen Jennings; and son, Jerry Thompson (wife, Jean), all of Springfield; also four grandchildren, Tamara (Michael) Rentchler, Brian (Angela) Thompson, Michael (Carla) Thompson, Gregory Thompson (deceased); nine, great-grandchildren (one deceased) and two great-great granddaughters. Also sister Geneva Koogler and several nephews and nieces.
Berenice taught public school when she was only 18 years old and then was selected to start the Hot Lunch Program for Shannon County Schools which she did for approx, 15 years. She always loved children and people in general. In 1960 Berenice and Gerald moved to Springfield. They became active in their community and church, Webster Park Baptist and served at that church for 45 years. Berenice taught in the church, in several public schools in remedial courses, assisting in any capacity she could help.
She was involved helping inmates in Greene County Jail learn to read and study for their GED’s. She enjoyed helping people, giving of her self and proclaiming her strong faith in Christ. She lived her faith and today, she is enjoying her “New” life with her savior and with her family that went ahead of her.
The family appreciates the staff and caregivers at Sonshine Manor and the loving care they all gave.
Funeral services will be Friday, December 31, 2010 at 3 P.M. in Greenlawn Funeral Home North. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 P.M. Thursday, December 30 in the funeral home.
Berenice lived a full life, giving more than she received, loving her family and all of her family loved her.