Edith (Owens) Thompson

Edith Thompson passed away peacefully on May 23, 2024, at the age of 88, in Wilmington, North Carolina. Born on November 16, 1935 in Wilson County, NC, Edith was the beloved daughter of Bobby and Henrietta Owens and the youngest of seven siblings. She was married to Marvin Thompson for nearly 50 years. Together, they raised a beautiful family including their children Greg Thompson of Wilmington, NC, Barbara Smith of Cary, NC, Susan Allen and Hugh Thompson (Kristine), both of Wilmington, NC. Edith also leaves eight grandchildren: Dane Thompson, Leigh Lanier (Michael), Katie Allen, Morgan McBride (Sean), Caroline Smith, Bailey Thompson, Cameron Thompson, and Clay Thompson, and four great-grandchildren, Clover Jacobus and Oak Lanier, and Luke and Rory McBride. 

Edith was a godly, gracious, hard-working and intelligent woman who steered her family and friends towards the Lord. Edith was a cherished member at Forest Hills Baptist Church (formerly First Five Points Missionary Baptist Church) for over 40 years, where her voice, a testament to her spirit, could be heard in the church choir, and she was instrumental in introducing her children to the church at an early age.

Professionally, Edith retired as a Vice President from 1st Union Bank after 38 years of banking. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence set a standard for all who knew her, and her influence extended well beyond the walls of the bank. Edith graduated from the UNC School of Banking in Chapel Hill, and she was an active member and past President of Business and Professional Women’s Club in Wilson, NC.

An avid bridge player, Edith's strategic mind and fierce competition were highlights of many gatherings. Edith loved music, especially gospel hymns such as Amazing Grace, He Lives, and Love Lifted Me. She also loved dancing and playing pool, learning the game on the pool table in the back room of her dad’s store. Her love for candy, cherries, and honey buns was well-known, a sweet indulgence that began as a child. 

She will be remembered as a smart, independent woman on the move who was always taking care of others. She was a doer, always active and involved. She was a take-charge person who loved to be organized and never met a stranger. She would never sit down and would always take care of everyone else. She would never let anyone leave her home without an ice-cold beverage.

Edith's life was a testament to the beauty of a life focused on family, faith, and service to others. Her memory will be cherished, and her example followed by all who were touched by her. As we say goodbye to Edith, we celebrate the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the incredible woman she was. We take comfort in knowing that her legacy is one of love and that her soul will forever be a guiding light for her family and all who knew her.

Funeral service for Mrs. Thompson will be held at One o’clock PM Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Forest Hills Baptist Church with the Reverend Mark Harrell officiating. The family will receive friends briefly following the service. Interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Forest Hills Baptist Church, 1407 Forest Hills Rd. NW, Wilson, NC 27896.

Arrangements are in the care of Providence Funeral & Cremation Service 519 Broad St. W. Wilson, NC 27893. Phone: (252) 674-1553 

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