OK Obits

© Alva Review-Courier
February 2019
Submitted by: Glenn

Winnona Kay (Wilhite) Thompson

January 4, 1949 ~ 2019

Winnona Kay Thompson was born January 4, 1949, in Hardtner, Kansas. She was preceded in death by her father Dale Wilhite. Winnona is survived by her husband of 50 years, Arthur Gene (Joe) Thompson; mother Norma Wilhite; two children Christopher (Carrie) Thompson and Erin (Cary) Hayes;, and six grandchildren, Carter, Baleigh and Bennett Thompson, Abigail, Elizabeth and Evan Hayes.

After graduation from Hardtner High School in 1967, Winnona went on to Pratt Community College and received her associate's degree. It was here that she met Joe, and after a short courtship, they were married on June 28, 1969.

Joe and Winnie (as he nicknamed her) moved to Wichita, Kansas. Their son, Christopher, was born in 1973, and shortly after they built their first home in Schulte, Kansas. Their daughter, Erin, was born in 1975, and the family remained in Schulte until 1982, when they moved to west Wichita, building a home in Rainbow Lakes where they lived until moving to Kansas City in 2004 to be with their children and grandchildren.

Winnie was a dedicated and loving mom and grandma, centering her life around helping to raise and support all of them. She was always proud of her kids, watching them grow up and raise families of their own. She spent countless hours babysitting, transporting, and watching them play sports. She especially loved watching her grandsons play baseball, soccer, and basketball, and the girls at their soccer, volleyball, and softball games. She was the ultimate fan. Rarely did she miss a game, no matter the weather.

Winnona had the gift of making everyone feel like family – from the neighbors she was blessed to befriend and support to the clan of kids who occupied her basement on a regular basis (whether she knew it or not). She was able to spend many unforgettable vacations, sailing and exploring the world, with some of her very best friends. She became a second mom to countless friends of her kids – stocking the shelves with Doritos and Oreos – and never complaining about being the ultimate host to anyone who needed a place to be. She knew how to make others feel comfortable and at home wherever she was.

To say she will be missed is an understatement. The friends and family that she leaves behind are a testament to her love and loyalty, and she will not be forgotten.

Memorial services were held on Friday, February 22, 2019.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Diabetes Association or the American

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