Connie Gaye Thompson, 72, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away early Friday morning, August 7, 2026 at her home with family by her side. She was born on September 25, 1954, in Carthage, Missouri, the daughter of the late Leland Jackson and Genevieve (Eagan) Jackson. Connie lived a life marked by love, kindness, and devotion to the people who meant the most to her.
Connie was a lifelong resident of the Carthage area and a proud 1972 graduate of Carthage High School. She carried the values of her hometown with her throughout her life, and those who knew her remember her as a loving, friendly, and kind woman who made others feel welcome and cared for. She married the love of her life, Robert Thompson, on November 22, 1973, in Carthage.
She worked for many years as an insurance billing coordinator for the offices of Dr. Richardson and Unruh, Dr. Smart, and Dr. Manzer in Carthage. Through her work, she was known for her dependability, professionalism, and steady nature. She took pride in doing her job well and in being someone others could count on. Her years of service reflected her strong work ethic and her commitment to helping others in a quiet and meaningful way. Family was the center of Connie’s life, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved. She especially enjoyed time with her family, going camping, and caring for her flower beds. These simple joys brought her happiness and reflected the peaceful, nurturing way she lived her life. She found fulfillment in being surrounded by loved ones and in creating memories that will be cherished for generations.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Robert “Bob” Thompson; her daughter, Kellie Balcom (Richard), Carthage; her granddaughter, Marlie Hanner (Cameron), Carthage; her great-grandchild, Mavis Azelea Hanner, Carthage; her siblings, Charlotte Bricker, Carthage, Lura Gordon (Jerry), Jasper, Mike Jackson, Alba, Marcia Pliler, Carthage, Debbie Oplotnik (Bryan), Joplin, Doug Jackson (Teresa), Carthage, Karen Chambell (Terry), Carthage, and Kevin Jackson (Becky), Alba; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and many extended family members and friends. Connie was also preceded in death by her brother, Lindell Jackson.
Memorial graveside services will be held at 11 am, Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Park Cemetery, Carthage. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 9:30 – 10:30 am at Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
