Sheila Rae Thompson

Sheila R. Thompson, of Schoolcraft passed away on Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at the age of 82. Sheila was born on August 27, 1939 in Kalamazoo, MI. She was the daughter of Norman and Wilma (Solomon) Drake. She graduated from Portage High School with the Class of 1957. In her earlier years she loved to go to Long Lake Roller Rink and roller skate. She also for 27 years worked as an accountant for Fidelity Federal Savings & Loan. On July 19, 1988 life took a turn for the better for Sheila, she married a man that was truly her soulmate, Vernon Thompson. She enjoyed her time with Vernon and loved to travel with him. Sheila had a gypsy soul to her and during a period over the last 40 years, she moved at least 22 times. In her spare time, she loved knitting, interior decorating, and repurposing old furniture. A lifelong resident of the Kalamazoo and surrounding area she also spent time in Irons MI., Shelbyville Kentucky, and Englewood Fl. In 2014 she moved back to the area and lived with her sister Judy, whom she formed a very strong bond with. Together they faithfully attended Cherry Creek Community Church. Sheila’s family will remember her as a caregiver, kind, and a woman with a strong faith.

Sheila is survived by four children: Bill (Sherie) Goodman, of Portage; Tony (Ricki) Goodman, of Grandville; Dawn Goodman, of Kalamazoo; and Matt Tefft, of Kalamazoo; one Step son Vern (Mary) Thompson, of Vicksburg; 16 grandchildren and 40 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Judy Preston, of Schoolcraft; Norman (Robbi) Drake, of Lawton; Peggy (Mike) Shaw, of Scotts; Bob (Joletta) Drake, of Kalamazoo, childhood friends Lillian Fluty, Ken (Lee) Evensen; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She is preceded in death by her husband Vernon; son Michael Tefft; sister: Nancy Smith; and her parents: Norman and Wilma Drake.

Sheila has been cremated. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 30^th at 1pm at Cherry Creek Community Church.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to read updated service information, sign the guestbook and/or share your favorite memory. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Cherry Creek Community Church, 10641 Shaver Road, Portage, MI 49024.

The Thompson family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 409 South Main, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.