Mary Emma (Willen)Thompson

Mary Emma (Willen) Thompson, 90, of Blountville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home in the presence of family on January 7, 2026. Mary was born July 6, 1935 and was the oldest daughter of the late Lawrence and Rosie Willen

Together with her loving husband she tended their small farm with loving care, growing rich beds of creeping phlox that bordered their beautiful yard, beds of vibrant irises, rich daylilies, brilliant poppies, the niece's and nephew's favorite, the 9 o'clocks, and lush beds of wildflowers, alongside generous harvests of beans, onions, turnips, sweet corn, and many other variations of flowers and vegetables. She delighted in sharing it all - carrying baskets of vegetables and flowers to neighbors, friends, family, church suppers, and local markets, each one a small gift of her generous spirit.

In the kitchen, Mary's heart shone brightest. With flour-dusted hands she baked mouth-watering cakes, pies, and hearty meals that drew people together, filling homes with warmth and laughter. If she heard you were ill or celebrating a birthday you could always expect a card from her and most likely a cake, pie, or a meal filled with well wishes, every dish carrying her love.

She found deep joy in working outdoors. Her calloused hands shaping a beautiful life on the land she and her husband cherished through the years. Her days followed the gentle rhythm of the seasons - from the first creeping phlox bloom to the last autumn aster.

Mary leaves behind a legacy of color, flavor, and kindness that will live on in every heart she touched, every garden she inspired, and every table she gathered around.

She was a devoted member of Sunnyside Baptist Church who have shown their unwavering support throughout her illness.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her precious husband of 72 years who was her best friend, Franklin (Lane) Thompson, two sisters, Geneva Slaughter and Dinah Mitchell, and one brother Richard Willen.

Left behind to cherish her memory she is survived by her three sisters Judy Pope of Piney Flats, TN, Leona Gibson of Blountville. TN  and Darlene Garrett (Charlie) of Blountville, TN, one brother, Ardean Willen of Newark, DE, several nieces and nephews that were very special to her, and a very special niece, Cathy Hubbard.

The family will receive friends from 12-2:00 pm on Sunday January 11, 2026 at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home & Memorial Park in Blountville, TN. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm with Dr. Bill Sims officiating. Entombment will follow in the Mausoleum of Faith.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the building fund at Sunnyside Baptist Church, 406 Cooks Valley Road, Kingsport, TN 37664.