Alice Ruth Dye Thompson's Obituary
Alice Ruth Dye Thompson was born on October 6, 1931, in Geff, Illinois. Alice was number five of six children. Raised on a farm during the Great Depression, She learned very young the value of hard work and the importance of taking care of responsibilities. She fed the chickens, milked the cows and whatever else needed to be done all before going to school each day. Alice was also someone who always found ways to enjoy life at whatever age or whatever time. She loved to roller skate. When she was not working or going to school, Alice would often roller skate on the main road near her home and wave at the passing trucks and other vehicles.
In many ways, Alice was a woman ahead of her time. At a young age she determined to go to college to give herself more opportunities. At just 15 years old, she did. Alice was so young her mother had to accompany her to Southern Illinois University to convince the dean of students that Alice was mature enough for the challenge. While still in college, Alice began to teach school. In 1951, at a teacher’s convention, she was introduced to a history teacher and track coach, who was also an ordained minister named Herb Thompson. They married in September of 1952.
Being dedicated Christians and understanding the importance of serving in God’s church, Alice and Herb were both deeply involved in the various ministries of Valley View Christian Church to help spread the Gospel of Christ Jesus. The two of them were instrumental in the growth of Valley View over the years.
In the early 1980’s Herb decided to start his own Sales Rep business called Herb Thompson and Associates. Alice was more than happy to be his administrative assistant and Office Manager. The two of them worked well together to form a highly successful home-based business that would last well into the 21st century.
Ever the athlete, Alice played Tennis into her seventies. Herb affectionately called Alice his ‘green eyed tennis player’ and proudly displayed all of Alice’s many tennis trophies in their living room.
After nearly 46 years of marriage, Herb passed away in July of 1998. Alice never remarried.
As a widow, Alice continued her life of Christian charity as she worked for Meals on Wheels delivering meals to older people who could not get out of their homes. Alice also served on the Valley View Christian Church Mission Board.
Across her life, Alice was seemingly a perfect balance of all the facets of life, Faith, family, career and recreation. She knew how to serve God, work hard and enjoy life all at the same time in the many years of her purpose driven life.
Alice is survived by her two sons and daughters in law: Herbert R. Thompson III (Rusty) and his wife Tammy Blair Thompson. Thomas Lee Thompson and his wife Sandy Cyrus Thompson. Four grandchildren: Kendal Thompson Leech and Aubry Thompson, Hallie Thompson and Philip Thompson. Lastly, Alice is survived by three great grandchildren: Dex, Leo and Isla Leech.
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