Mary M. Thompson's Obituary
On June 22, 1922, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, a beautiful soul entered the world—Mary Magdalene Nash—born to Aras and Emma Nash. As a young girl, Mary moved with her family to Mounds, Oklahoma, where she attended Prairie #1 School with her siblings. Even in childhood, her gentle spirit and radiant smile left a lasting impression on those around her.
Mary gave her life to Christ at a young age, baptized by Rev. T.B. Brown at New Bethel Baptist Church. When she was 10 years old, the family relocated to Beggs, Oklahoma, where she continued her education at Wheatley School and built the foundation of a life rich in love, service, and faith.
In her youth, Mary met and fell in love with a kind and handsome young man named Nathaniel “Mike” Thompson. Their love blossomed, and on April 20, 1939, they were united in marriage by Rev. H.A. Haynes. Their union was blessed with ten beautiful children and a legacy that would span five generations. Mary was a devoted member of Handy’s Chapel Methodist Church in Beggs. She served faithfully for many years, taking on roles as a class leader and an active member of the Pastor’s Aid Committee. Her commitment to the church remained steadfast until its doors closed.
A dedicated and beloved figure in her community, Mary retired from the Beggs Public School System after more than 25 years as Head Cook at Beggs Middle School. She cherished the children she served, often remembering their smiles and stories. Mary had a gift for making everyone feel seen, welcomed, and loved—whether they were a neighbor or a stranger passing by. One of her favorite pastimes was sitting on her front porch, waving joyfully at cars as they traveled down Highway 16, smiling at each one even though she did not know them.
Mary was the life of every gathering. Her humor was contagious, and her energy brought joy to every room. She especially cherished her birthdays—celebrating each one with joy and anticipation, particularly when her grandsons performed her favorite, “My Girl” by The Temptations. Mary loved playing dominoes and took pride in defeating her opponents, challenging every visitor to a game.
Mary lived a long and blessed life, overflowing with love, laughter, and unwavering faith. She was the proud matriarch of a growing and thriving family. She lived to witness and embrace five generations, creating a legacy of 10 children, 32 grandchildren, 76 great-grandchildren, and 71 great-great-grandchildren—an astonishing total of 189 descendants.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Nathaniel “Mike” Thompson Sr.; her parents, Aras and Emma Nash; her seven siblings—Lorene Brown, Mamie Galloway-Whitherspoon, Rosetta Richard, Helen Tyson, Joseph “Joe” Nash, Aras “Jubie” Nash Jr., and Riley Nash; three of her children—Nathaniel “Floyd” Thompson Jr., Maxine Henderson, and Sandra Laster; three grandchildren—Nathaniel “Bo” Colbert, Marcus Barnett, and Antonia Jones; and two great-granddaughters—Kanisha Jackson and Tamia Barnett.
She leaves to cherish her memory: five daughters—Lois Nash (Hewlett), Helen “Joan” Colbert, Rosa Perry (Chester), Sharon “Kaye” Barnett (Larry), and Renee Benson; two sons—Ernie Thompson (Charla) and Gary Thompson; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins; and countless beloved friends and extended family.
Mary’s legacy lives on in every life she touched. She was the heart of her family and a light in her community. Her laughter, wisdom, and love will be remembered for generations to come.
Friends may visit the funeral home on Friday, April 18, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Funeral services will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, April 19, 2025 at the Mount Olive Baptist Church in Sapulpa. Interment will follow in the New Post Oak Cemetery in Beggs.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Beggs, Oklahoma. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family on Mary's Tribute Page of our website. www.mcclendon-winters.com
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