THOMPSON, Patricia (Patty Jo) JoAnn

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 02/27/2012 Patricia 'Patty Jo' JoAnn (Heiman) Thompson Our” precious mother died peacefully and beautifully at home Feb. 7, 2012. She was 71 years young. Born and raised (1940) in Bridgewater, S.D. she fondly recalled memories of growing up there, especially times spent with her best friend, Garnet (Sample) Klveber with whom she remained friends for over 50 years. “Thank you Garnet.” “Mom” met and married Phil Thompson in 1958. They had three children. In 1963, they moved to Arizona. First to Show Low then to Thatcher in 1995 for a warmer climate. Phil built their home there and Pat always kept busy. A very creative woman, her home and yard displayed her love and talent for decorating and gardening. She loved Spring/Summer, shorts and flip-flops, talk-radio and iced tea. She also loved yard sales and good books. She was a great cook but hated cooking. She liked her smokes, and she adored cats. She never turned away a hungry stray and when they came, they came to stay. She was tender-hearted, giving and kind, also a quick-witted, fiesty and funny woman. She loved to laugh, slow dance and visit. She made friends easily. She was a great mother and trusted friend. She believed in God and Heaven. She requested no services be held, “no fuss, no muss,” she’d say. “Mama” showed such dignity during her illness, she never felt sorry for herself and never once complained. She showed such strength and courage “we are so proud to have had her as our mother, what a gal!” Missing her are children: Dan, Sherry and Mike; two grandsons: Cody and Tyler; one great-grandson; brother Francis Heiman; sisters-in-law; nieces; nephews; many cousins; relatives; friends; and her beloved cats. Gathered to greet her was her husband, Phil; parents: Bill and Nora Heiman; brother Martin Heiman, friends, and lots of critters. If you know Patty Jo, she’s looking for Elvis. “Thanks for the memories mama, we love and miss you so much. See ya when we get there. And thank you to everyone who knew Patty Jo for your kindness, sympathy and support.”