In loving memory of Kelly Ann Thompson. Beloved wife, mother of 3, and grandmother of 2. Courageous, Beautiful, Loving, and most of all the light that pushed everyone forward.

Kelly Thompson was a woman who knew how to fill a room with love, laughter, and warmth. She had a presence that could make people feel seen, cared for, and connected. On September 9, 2026, the world lost an extraordinary woman, but the love she gave so freely will continue to live on through everyone who was fortunate enough to have known her.

Kelly was born on May 21, 1975, in Trenton, New Jersey. She was one of six sisters and began carrying responsibilities far beyond her years at an incredibly young age. At just 14 ½ years old she was already helping and caring for her sisters, before moving out shortly after to start a new safe life. She grew up during brutal and difficult times, while enduring more than people will ever know, or admit talking about. Yet, somehow through everything she experienced, she continued to choose love, compassion, and care.

That was simply who Kelly was. She was resilient. She was strong. She was dedicated. No matter what life placed in front of her, she found a way to keep pushing forward and being the “Strong Rock” others depended on.

Kelly was a devoted wife to her husband, Preston Thompson, for more than 30 years. They have spent life sharing more years together than alone. Best friends who knew how to laugh, argue, love and consolidate. They learned how to become parents together, experience big life changes, fight the long-distance battles and know the true value of family. Together they built a life shaped by love, strength and commitment. Their family moved frequently due to the military, creating a life filled with different places and experiences, but wherever they went, she had a way of making a home out of the people she cared for and loved.

Her greatest pride was her family. Kelly was the beloved mother of Josie, Izaiah, and Alexis. There was nothing she loved more than being a mother, and a grandmother to Sophie and Lillian. Loved all her children’s partners as if they were her own children. Never denied anyone. She cherished her role as a grandmother and treasured the moments she was able to spend with her family. But her love was never limited to her immediate family. She had a remarkable way of showing up for people. When someone was alone, hurting, or sick, Kelly was there. She didn’t need to be asked or paid. Caring for people was one of the many love languages we were grateful to receive. She gave comfort, support, even while carrying on her own struggles. She made connections every day. Sometimes they were big moments, and sometimes they were the smallest thing- but Kelly let people know they mattered regardless of the size.

Her values and understanding are unheard of. She was a believer in Love is Love. She spoke her truths, even if they were hard ones. Kelly wasn’t afraid to talk. After learning how to speak loudly and express herself regardless of who judges or denies. She held family to a different high standard. She created the steps of being an awesome human and treating people kindly. She knew hardship and still knew how to laugh. She was fiercely loved and idolized. And, although her voice may no longer be here to say it, the people she loved will carry her words and stand tall for her forever.

Kelly always believed she wasn’t from this world, and we are all connected in more ways than one. Through different forms of energy whether that be light, sound, wildlife, anything. She was the kind of person who stops you in your tracks because her beauty is elegant. Peaceful. Her aura poured into people’s lives which caused them to gravitate towards her. She loved music, she loved dancing. She loved plants and gardening and designing. She loved being a mom and making new traditions. Those are the moments that will remain: laughter, the conversations, the snuggles and family routines, but mainly the feeling of togetherness. There will always be those little exchanges that somehow became the biggest memories.

“I love you more and I said it first.” And perhaps that was Kelly in two words. More Love. Rest peacefully our sweet angel. Continue watching over us with the family and our moon babies. Your light and spirit will continue to live through us all. We love you and we said it first.

The family invites everyone to a time of sharing about Kelly’s love and life on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home in Onalaska. A visitation will follow the time of sharing until 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.