Barbara Lavonne Thompson

February 14, 1928 - September 25, 2019

Barbara Lavonne Thompson passed away peacefully on Sept. 25, 2019 after a week battling a severe infection. She was born a Valentine baby on 02/14/1928 in Merrillville, Indiana. Barbara was the oldest daughter of Belva and Ralph Conner's 2 children. She is survived by her 3 children; Cynthia Sherfey-Lee, Randall Thompson and Lori Roe; 3 grandchildren; Alyssa Wheeler, Jordan Roe and Emily Roe as well as great-granddaughter Macy Wheeler. Barbara attained her Cosmetology License after high school, married her high school sweetheart Gary (Tommy) Thompson & resided in Indiana for 10 years before settling in Redlands in 1959. Raising her family in Redlands, she became active in church and school related activities with Sacred Heart Church (Holy Name of Jesus); including Mother's Club, the annual school carnival and the El Carmelo Retreat House fiesta. Having worked her parents plant nursery in Indiana, Barbara was an avid gardener, loving all the native plants of the southwest she had made her home. In time, her love for dogs and her cosmetology skills bloomed into a home dog grooming business for friends and family. She had her youngest child at 36 and so her grand children came later on in life during her "retirement " years. With boundless energy, she enjoyed spending time with them and traveling when she could. Barbara's travels to the Southwest States were her favorites and spurred her lovely Indian Art Collection. Barbara will be missed for her beautiful smile and giving spirit that was evident in all she did. She made you feel special with each encounter, whether it was by some hand cut flowers or a cup of tea. We know she now rests in peace with Our Lord Jesus in heaven. A beautiful wife, mom, "Nana Barbie" and friend will forever be remembered. To honor a life well lived, Barbara's services will be held at Cortner Chapel, 221 Brookside Ave., Redlands, Ca. on Wednesday October 16. A viewing from 1 to 3PM in the chapel, followed by a Service in the Chapel at 3:00PM. There will be a Celebration of Life following the Chapel Service at the Lugonia Fountains Club House, 1251 E. Lugonia Ave in Redlands.