With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Norma “Jeanie” Thompson, 92, of Centralia, who left us peacefully on March 24, 2025, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia with her devoted family by her side.
She was born Thursday, March 23, 1933, in Wayne County, IL, the daughter of Clarence Brewer and Emmaline “Emma” (Sinclair) Brewer. Jeannie lived a life dedicated to the care and service of others. She spent many years with the love of her life, Orville Ferguson, and he preceded her in death.
In her earlier years, Jeanie worked at the Hollywood Candy Factory. Jeanie then became a devoted nanny to Ian and Michael. She adored their time spent together. Jeanie devoted her later life to working as a compassionate grandparent at the Warren G. Murray Developmental Center in Centralia, touching countless lives with her kindness, warmth, and unwavering commitment to those in need. Jeanie loved to travel, go shopping, and spend time with her family. Her gentle spirit and heartfelt dedication were truly a blessing to everyone she encountered.
Jeanie is survived by her sister, Carol Mathis and husband DeLane of Salem, special niece: Mindy Seger and husband David of Centralia, nephews and nieces: Eric Mathis of Centralia, Dana Chapman and Dale Arning of Centralia, Patrick Chapman of Centralia, and Patty Dothager of Centralia; several great nieces and nephews; Travis, Ashleigh, Brooke, Dylan, Delta, Tommie, Tracy, Meghan, Caleb, Kaitlyn, Ashley, Heidi, and Hillary. Extended bonus family: Joel Parrish and wife Kathy of Centralia, Ian Parrish of Washington D.C., and Michael Parrish and wife Katie of Charleston, and their children: Ezra and Juniper; special friends: Dennis Sanders, and Betty Martin who will carry forward her memory with love and affection. Their bond was a testament to strength and support, and Jean cherished their time together.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents: Clarence L. Brewer and Emma Brewer; Love of her Life: Orville Ferguson; sisters: Beaulah Dothager, Martha Chapman and husband Charles; nephews and nieces: Christopher Shannon Mathis, Shawn Chapman, Tina Chapman Emmett, and Michael Dothager.
Funeral services for Norma “Jeannie” Thompson will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, with her great nephew, Pastor Saúl Muñoz, officiating. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia. A visitation for family and friends will be held Friday, March 28, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the funeral home. In memory of Jeanie Thompson, memorial donations may be made to the Murray Parents Association. They will be accepted by the Sutherland Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore St. in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, which is honored to be of service to Jeanie’s family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
