Irene B. Thompson

Thompson, Irene P., 90, of Richland. The world lost a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Irene Bessie Thompson, on March 23, 2022. Irene passed away peacefully at Windber Hospice surrounded by her family. Irene was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania on December 12, 1931. Irene was the embodiment of a strong matriarch who loved fiercely and touched the lives of everyone who met her. She loved crocheting blankets for the family and attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and weddings. She loved going to the beach in North Carolina and still talked about her trip to Disney World. She was world famous for her no-bake cookies which her children and grandchildren have forever attempted (unsuccessfully) to re-create. Long-time member of First Lutheran Church. Irene is preceded in death by her Husband, James P. Thompson, Sr.; her father, Clyde Strayer; her Step-Mother, Naomi Strayer; and her mother, Edna Bessie Horner. Irene is survived by her 3 sisters, Patricia Korchnak, Carol Clark, and Sharon Dungan, and 2 brothers Eugene Strayer (Vera) and Lynn Strayer (Patty). Irene is survived by her seven children - Brenda Varnish, Susan Lehman (Tom), James Thompson (Carolyn), Diane Gvozdich (George), Ronald Thompson (Darla), David Thompson (Denise), and Scott Thompson (Teresa). Irene is also survived by 12 grandchildren – Jason (Julie), Melissa (Robert), Joshua (Lindsey), Eric (Amanda), Brad (Renee), Christopher, Kelsey (Brenton), Lindsay, Katelyn (Darius), Courtney (Chip), Tyler (Mikayla), and Nathan. Irene is survived by 13 great-grandchildren, many grand-pets, and other friends and family whose lives she impacted along the way. “All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” Visitation 3 to 7 pm Friday and from 12:30 pm to time of service at 1:30 pm Saturday at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland. Rev. Walter Startzel, officiating. Interment at Richland Cemetery. (Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)