"Autumn winds will soon overcome, and finally quiet the celebratory birdsong
each morning's open windows offered." (Mary Thompson)

Mary Eleanor (Knight) Thompson (1931 – 2025)

Beloved Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, and Friend

With grace, warmth, and an unwavering devotion to others, Mary Eleanor Thompson departed this world after 94 extraordinary years filled with kindness, adventure, and love. A lifelong Chicagoan, Mary was the cherished widow of Theodore James Thompson, her partner in life and travel, with whom she explored the world and shared a deep love of learning and laughter.

Mary was the devoted mother of Therese Thompson (Richard Smith), Margaret Thompson (John Liggett), and Teddy Thompson (Raye Thompson), and a proud grandmother to Nicholas Smith and Theo Thompson. She was also a loving aunt to Phil Knight, Karen Knight McCutcheon, Susan Knight Halicky, Courtney Thompson, Peter Thompson, Patrick Thompson, Julie Knight Maier, John Knight, Tim Knight, and Colleen Knight Harvey—each of whom knew her as a source of kindness, joy, and support.

Her life was a tapestry of vibrant passions. She was a writer and poet whose words reflected the depth of her compassion, a singer with the Melodeers, and a lover of music, fine art and theater. Mary also found great delight in tennis, golf, fishing, bowling, and as a volunteer archeologist in her earlier years. Her thirst for knowledge and her adventurous spirit led her across continents, always with curiosity in her heart and Ted Sr. by her side.

But above all, Mary's legacy is one of selflessness and acceptance. She gave freely of her time, her love, and her spirit—always putting others first, always making space for joy. Her presence was a gift, her laughter a cure, and her wisdom a guiding light.

Mary never liked goodbyes. She preferred to leave things open, and hopeful. So, in her own words, we say not farewell, but simply…

"Love you - bye for now"

A celebration of life memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 1st at 11:00am at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church – 708 West Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Mary was a longtime supporter of Misericordia in Chicago. In lieu of flowers, a donation in her name would be a meaningful gesture.