Joy Thompson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Joy Christine (Maeder) Thompson, departed this life on January 8, 2021 for her final reward. She was born July 21, 1928 in Joplin, Missouri to the late Perry and Marie (Morrow) Maeder, the second of four children.

Joy graduated from Joplin High School in 1946 and later attended Joplin Junior College. Joy married Staff Sergeant Paul E. Thompson, USMC, on August 24, 1947 at First United Methodist Church in Joplin, where they were lifelong members. Joy had three sons, Pat, Bob, and Tim.

Joy’s first job was at the Joplin Globe, where she worked at the front desk and switchboard. Following, the Globe, she held jobs at the Joplin Chamber of Commerce; Allgeier, Martin and Associates; MSC, where she was secretary to the former President, Leon Billingsly, from 1975-1993; and last worked for the City of Joplin as the City Clerk. She was Joplin’s biggest fan, always remarking what a fine town Joplin was and how proud she was of it. 

Among her many professions and family, she still found time for many civic duties. Joy was a member of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, the Missouri City Clerks and Finance Officers Association, the Missouri Municipal League Board of Directors, the Joplin Humane Society Board of Directors, and the Pilot Club of Joplin.

In her long and varied career, she received three Lifetime Achievement Awards and numerous other commendations and distinctions.

Joy was preceded in death by her husband, Paul; oldest son, Patrick; one grandchild; and one great-grandchild.

She is survived by two sons, Bob Thompson of rural Anderson, Missouri, and Tim Thompson (Malene) of Georgia; two grandsons, Mike Thompson (Kristi) of Edmond, Oklahoma, and Brad Thompson (Kim) of Joplin; and three great-grandchildren.

Joy loved her family, her God, dogs, and crossword puzzles. Oh! And chocolate.

The family will receive friends at Parker Mortuary from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 22, 2021. Graveside services will directly follow at 2:30 p.m. at Osborne Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Joplin Humane Society, Show-Me Christian Youth Homes, or Watered Gardens Rescue Mission in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Parker Mortuary.