Thadeena Thompson, 96, of Wood River, went to be with Jesus at 10:20 a.m. Friday, July 12, 2024 at Apostolic Christian Skyline in Peoria, IL

Born May 12, 1928 in Senath, MO to the late Frederick Theddeous and Ethel (Beard) Bryant.  She was the oldest of four children.  At the age of 12 Deena lost her mother to breast cancer.  She became an instant mother to her siblings ages eight, four and one.  She quickly learned how to run a household and from that life experience she grew to be selfless, independent and strong willed.

Deena married the love of her life, Lindell W. Thompson, Sr. on January 22, 1949 in St. Louis, MO.  He proceeded her in death on February 11, 1999.

She accepted Christ in 1952 and felt God's calling into the ministry.  She began her ministry in Wyatt, MO in September of 1958.  On October 12, 1963 she was ordained by the Christians Association of General Baptists.  In May of 2008 she retired, after 50 years of preaching the gospel.  She may have retired from the pulpit but never from preaching God's word!

Deena is survived by her son Lindell "Chip" and Helen Thompson, Jr. of Brighton; grandchildren, Laura Martin (Josh Ealey – fiance'), Joe (Amy Shanks) Thompson, Dawn (Jason) Reed/Gipson, Missy Ewin, Jodi (Josh) Lenover; great-grandchildren, Julianna Buchanan, Ayden Martin, Brett (Alexandrea) Reed, Kelsey (Clint) Gelsinger, Waylon, Layne and Claire Thompson, Bentley, Dagen and Davanee Lenover; great-great-grandchildren, Brantley, Hank and Cash Reed, Brent Gelsinger.

God bless Suzie Hill and Darrell for All the special care that she gave Aunt Deena during the last few years of her life. She was so inspirational and instrumental in the care for her and her needs as well as her health care.

Besides her husband and parents, Deena was preceded in death by two sons, Gary Thompson and Fred Thompson; a grandson Gary Thompson, Jr.

Deena was loved, admired and respected by all she touched while spreading the Gospel from Central Illinois to Southeast Missouri.

A celebration of Deena's life will be from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Friday, July 19, 2024 at Gray Funeral Home in Wood River with service immediately following.  Rev. Stephen Gray will officiate.

Burial will be at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Memorials may be given to that of one's choice.