Jessie Thompson

Jess N. Thompson age 90, of Fairview, passed away on Tuesday, February 21, 2017.

She was born in New Lanark, Scotland on May 17, 1926 the daughter of the late Robert and Helen Nicol. Jess was the first female Gold Medal award recipient, given by Robert Owen, that allowed a child who showed great promise to continue beyond grade school. Jess immigrated to the United States at the age of 13. She attended the Julia Richmond School in NYC and was a professional model for Metropolitan Life.

She was an accomplished gardener and outstanding member of the American Bonsai Society. Her greatest joy was her family and nature.

Jess endowed the Joseph Thompson Physics and Tech Center at Porreco College and established the Jess Thompson Promise scholarships for students who have the ability, but not the resources, to improve their lives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Thompson, a grandson Joshua and her sister Effie Belch.

She is survived by her daughter, Janice Thompson of Malibu, CA; two sons, Glenn Thompson and his wife Demarie of McKean, PA, and Blair Thompson and his wife Giovanna of Fairview, PA; three grandchildren, Jessica N., Pierce and Jaci; and a great-grandson Oliver O. Jess is also survived by many nieces, nephews and countless friends.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home 3801 W.26th Street (at Powell Ave) on Monday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 pm and are invited to the funeral service on Tuesday at 11:00 am at St. Stephen’s Episcopal 1070 Dutch Road Fairview, PA 16415 with Rev. Alvin Johnson officiating.

Inurnment will be private at the convenience of the family in the St. Stephen’s Columbarium.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.