Mary Ann Thompson, 87
Born: July 20, 1925
Died: Sept. 12, 2012
Mary Ann Thompson, 87, former long-time resident of Niles, died Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2012, at her home in Baroda, surrounded by love, following an extended illness.

She was born July 20, 1925, in South Bend to Benjamin M. and Esther C. (Cranston) Hance and lived in Berrien County all of her life. She graduated in 1943 from Niles High School, where she was recognized as a proficient vocal musician, a talent she enjoyed the rest of her life. She was employed for many years at the former Thayer’s Jewelers in Niles.

Mary Ann was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Niles. She was also a member of the Ladies’ Reading Club in Niles, and as a young mother was an adult volunteer to the local troops of the Girl Scouts of America.

On March 28, 1947, at Trinity Church she married James E. Thompson, with whom she celebrated the 58th anniversary of their wedding prior to his death on March 26, 2006. She was also preceded in death by her brother and sister, T. C.

Hance and Dare Downey.

Surviving family includes their children, Janis D. Thompson of Baroda, Thomas James (Kathryn) Thompson, U.S.Navy-Retired, of Allegan; and Gayle A. (Edward Armstrong) Thompson of DeWitt; granddaughter, Megan Dare Thompson; and great-grandchildren, Kayla and John; many nieces and nephews; and a special long-time caregiver, Shawna Kelley.

Services for Mary Ann Thompson will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 27, at Trinity Episcopal Church with the Rev. James Slack officiating. Interment will be at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles.

The family will receive relatives and friends beginning at 10 a.m. Sept. 27 at the church.

Contributions in memory of Mary Ann may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, Hospice at Home or the Berrien County Cancer Service.

Arrangements were made at Halbritter Funeral Home in Niles.