Jean Thompson

Jean grew her angel wings as she passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones Wednesday, March 16, 2016.

Jean was born Oct. 13, 1951, in Great Falls, Mont. She was blessed to be part of a large family and spoke often of her fond memories surrounded by her aunts, uncles, cousins and siblings. Her favorite place was East Glacier National Park, helping her grandparents manage their hotel during the summer months.

In 1965, the family relocated to Pierce, when her mother, Betty, married James Lineberry. This reunion created another large family atmosphere, where 12 children blended together, which has endured through the years. Jean was always a motherly type and assisted in raising and caring for her siblings.

Jean was blessed with an adventurous and free spirit. Her stories of shared shenanigans would often attract everyone around the table. It didn't take long before smiles and laughter would erupt.

In August 1969, Jean became a proud and loving mother to her daughter, Nikki Rae. She faced the challenges of a single mother, but she endured, provided and loved her baby girl with all of her heart. Jean set a great example through her love and compassion for others, which helped Nikki develop into the woman she is today. Jean was the first to tell everyone how proud she was of Nikki's accomplishments.

In 1975, she met the love of her life, John Thompson and his pup, Mangus Colorado. They celebrated their Indian blanket marriage, and with her arms wide open welcomed John's daughter Danna. She loved and raised Danna as her own daughter and cherished their relationship.

Becoming a grandmother brought Jean the most joy. She showed her love and joy by being present for the births of her grandchildren. Jean was popular among the young mothers in her life. Her presence was requested because of her love and support during childbirth. Welcoming each new baby came with nicknames, which have stuck with them for life.

Love for family and friends was a priority and a way of life for Jean. It didn't take long to love Jean and become her friend. She insisted on monthly family gatherings, especially during the holidays. With quarters in hand, the game of 31 was a must at family gatherings.

Jean's love for raising and rescuing unique animals included a fawn; squirrels; owls; hedgehogs; an alligator; blue and gold macaws; African gray parrots; Spook, her calico kitty; and Zack, her inheritance from her father-in-law. In addition to animals, she found joy in music, reading, painting, tie-dyeing, cake decorating and collecting anything that lit up.

Jean worked most of her life in the service industry. She worked several years at the Pit Stop in Asotin and most recently at Station 3 until she retired. She will be remembered for her shenanigans, quick wit, storytelling, and ability to shoot the breeze with anyone. She was full of life and brought laughter to many customers and friends she encountered over the years.

Her parents, Betty and James Lineberry; and father-in-law Leo Thompson preceded her in death.

She is survived by her husband, John Thompson; daughters Nikki Thompson and grandson Destyn of Asotin, Danna Thompson-Smth (Rich) and grandchildren Breena and Justin Smith, and great-grandson Bently Anderson of Orofino; siblings Laura Meling of Lenore, Sue Curry of Forks, Wash., Jo Ellen (Mike) Allen of St. Maries, Idaho, Rod Magdall of Spokane, Cindra Garcia of Mesa, Ariz., Walter Lineberry of Pierce, Ruby (Kevin) Gebhart of Burley, Idaho, Scott (Amy) O'Brien of Clarkston, Wes (Macky) Lineberry of Pierce, Steve (Cindy) O'Brien of Greer, and Forest (Dawn) Lineberry of Sandpoint, Idaho; several nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Jean's celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Quality Inn at Clarkston. Light refreshment will be served. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Heart Association.