Obituary of Janet Carilyn Thompson

Janet Carolyn Parkins Thompson passed away on July 12, 2016 at the age of 90 after a short illness. She was the daughter of Shelby Nathan Parkins and Wilda Mae Fisher Parkins and spent the majority of her life in Charleston, WV. Born on May 18th, 1926, she lived a vibrant life. She is preceded by her husband, Joseph W. Thompson, her parents, and a brother, Doyle Parkins. She is survived by a brother, Dean Parkins (Doris Ann), sister Jean Grade, daughter Terri Small (Steve), and son, Mike Thompson, as well as grandchildren Eric Small (Sarah), Rebacca Small, Parker Thompson, and Rachel Small-Stokes (Leslie). She graduated from Stonewall Jackson High School in 1944, worked at the telephone company for 2 years, and then studied at Morris Harvey College, graduating in 1950. While at Morris Harvey College, she was involved in Future Teachers Association, Methodist Student movement, Panhelinic Council, Phi Lambda Tau sorority, and was honored to be in the May Court for 2 years and Miss Senior in 1950. Janet taught at Hurricane High School, Washington District High School and DuPont High School. She taught Adult Education 2 nights a week while raising her children until returning as a substitute teacher in Kanawha Valley from 1971-73. In 1973, she accepted a full-time position at Stonewall Jackson High School until her retirement in 1988. Janet was also active as a leader in Girl Scouts, a member of the Edgewood Garden Club and Charleston Women's Club. She was very active with United Methodist Church at Central and Canaan in Charleston and Suncrest in Morgantown. She served with the United Methodist Women, as a Sunday school teacher, and on numerous committees. She moved to Morgantown in December 2004. Visitation and viewing are scheduled for Sunday, July 24th at 1:00 p.m. at Christ United Methodist Church in Charleston, WV followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. officiated by the Rev. Jay Parkins. Burial will occur at Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens following the service. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at Suncrest United Methodist Church in Morgantown, WV on Monday, July 25th at 1:00 p.m. with the Rev. Tim Halloran officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to Suncrest United Methodist Church, 479 Van Voorhis Dr., Morgantown, WV 26505 OR Canaan United Methodist Church, 401 Roane St., Charleston, WV. 25302. Condolences can be sent to TerryBollinger1@aol.com.