Janet L. Thompson

Janet L. Thompson died at home on Jan. 1, 2015. She was born on March 27, 1934, to Jay W. Turrentine and Leona G. Tetrick in Aurora, Mo. She moved to Kansas City in 1945. Nursing was her educational goal. She attended Kansas University for her bachelors and later her masters in nursing, followed by a doctorate in education. She taught nursing at William Jewell College for 18 years and retired in 1991 as professor emeritus. Her interest in the homeless was a goal through her research and student learning. She received two professional awards: the Distinguished Alumni Award from Kansas University as well as Outstanding Nursing Educator award in 1991. She was licensed to practice nursing internationally, and accompanied two student groups from William Jewell College for clinical experiences with British nurses at Harlaxton Manor in Grantham, England, in 1982 and 1986. She married her second husband, Harold W. Thompson, in 1986. They retired to Rogers, Ark., in 1991. She became involved in volunteer activities at Central United Methodist Church and the community. The church choir became her joy, as well as teaching Sunday school for the youth. She was involved in local mission work. She was an active member of Granny's Quilts of Love in Pea Ridge. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold (Tommy) Thompson. Survivors include one sister, Judy Pertle of Rogers; daughters, Linda Vincent of Phoenix, Ariz., Diana Storey of Nashville, Tenn., and Karyn Sherar of Rogers, all who completed nursing degrees. She also leaves two stepdaughters, Pattie Pretti of Independence, Mo., and Kathy Lang of Kansas City, Mo.; as well as several grandchildren and step-grandchildren. Her memorial service will be at Central United Methodist Church Thursday, Jan. 8, at 1 p.m., officiated by Pastor Jamie Alexander. Visitation will follow the memorial service. Memorials can be made to Central United Methodist Church Music Ministry. Arrangements are through Benton County Funeral Home, 306 N. 4th, Rogers. Online condolences to www.bentoncountyfuneralhome.com.