Norma Jean Thompson

Our mother passed away Aug. 9, 2016.
She was a light in each of our lives that
will continue to shine as we reflect on
an amazing life filled with achievement, but lived
with selflessness and humility. Mother was an accomplished
pianist and organist whose music was a
ministry to many throughout her life. Playing for
congregational hymns, choir numbers, special cantatas,
accompaniment of vocalists and piano solos; she
could always be relied upon, her contributions always
excellent. Her practice sessions were a blessing to our
home. We will miss her music immensely and treasure
the memories and recordings of mom playing the
piano and organ. She was the inspiration for each
of her children to take up the piano as their favorite
instrument.
Norma’s mother died when Norma was a toddler.
Given difficult circumstances, the family of six siblings
were split up from each other and raised by
aunts and uncles. Raised in a small west Texas town,
Norma graduated from high school early and at the
age of 16 she started college at Bethany-Peniel College
in Bethany, Okla. While at Bethany, she met an
enthusiastic and talented young man named Luther.
Norma and Luther were married in 1942, and shared
72 years together until he passed away in 2014. Always
a beautiful team, they shared a passion and talent
for spiritual music ministry. As volunteers over
their years together, they led or participated in their
church’s music programs in Eugene, Ore., Bend, Ore.
and Walla Walla.
Norma kept a spotless house, was an avid reader,
loved her flowers, and always prepared beautiful
meals for her family. Mom was very thoughtful of
others and a great conversationalist. She had a special
gift for sharing love and encouragement with family
and friends with notes and letters. These compassionate
and encouraging letters to her children and
grandchildren continued long into their adult lives.
Norma and Luther had three children, Carol (Dave)
Larkin of Richland, James (Patti) Thompson of Albuquerque,
N.M., and Dr. Susan Thompson of Walla
Walla. Norma had six grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian
Church in Walla Walla on Saturday, Aug. 13,
2016, at 3 p.m. Donations may be made to the Christian
Aid Center in care of Herring Groseclose Funeral
Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla, WA 99362.