Obituary of Bessie Rae Thompson

Bessie Rae (Hotson) Thompson passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026 at St. Marys Memorial Hospital in her 91st year.  She lived a long beautiful life full of love, kindness and generosity.

She was a loving wife of 64 years to Vernon Oliver Thompson, who predeceased her in 2022, and a caring mother to Gary (Yvonne). Bessie was also a proud grandmother to Zachary (Taylor) and Evan (Emma).

She is survived by her sister, Lillian Marziali and sister-in-law, Edna Hotson.  Bessie will be missed by her many beloved nieces and nephews.

Bessie was predeceased by her brother Donald Hotson, and sisters Mary Kellestine and Grace Sparks. She was also predeceased by her sister-in-laws Anna Stephens and Helen McLean-Nethercott,  brother-in-laws Volly Marziali, Webb Kellestine, John Sparks, Lloyd McLean, Gordon Nethercott, and Bill Stephens.

Bessie began her life on a farm in Downie Township and went to public school at SS#7 Downie. She sang in choirs and competed in music festivals throughout her school years.  She went to high school in St. Marys.

Bessie worked as a telephone operator for Blanshard Municipal for several years.  Once married, Bessie and Vernon farmed in Motherwell where she also worked as a caretaker of the Motherwell Presbyterian Church and drove a mail route.  Bessie and Vernon later moved to St. Marys where they lived for almost 30 years.

Bessie was an active member of the Motherwell-Avonbank Presbyterian Church and later Avonton Presbyterian Church, and had a Life Membership in the Motherwell Women’s Institute which she joined in 1960.   In 1997, she was the winner of the Federated Women’s Institute in Canada Award for Inclusion in the Golden Book of Recognition for Volunteerism.  In 2010, she was recognized for 50 years of continuous volunteer service at the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards ceremony.  For many years, she acted as curator of the Tweedsmuir Book, which recorded the history of the community and Women’s Institute. 

Bessie loved music and art, crafting and quilting, puzzles and games, antiques and collectibles, travelling and spending time with friends, family, and neighbours.  She especially loved to be helpful and had a special knack for seeing where there was a need and knowing how to fill it.  She had a genuine interest in people’s lives and a strong sense of community.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service to honour Bessie’s life will be held on April 10, 2026, 2 pm at the ST. MARYS UNITED CHURCH, 85 Church St. S. St. Marys, with reception to follow.

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation or the charity of your choice.