Michele Amelia Thompson

Our beloved mother was born in March of 1969 and was taken from us far too soon. Though her time here was shorter than it should have been, her life was full of meaning, love, and incredible strength.

She was a devoted mother to her four children, whom she loved with her whole heart: her daughters, Krista Thompson and Ashley Thompson, and her sons, Steven Bansemer and Travis Bansemer. Everything she did, every sacrifice she made, was rooted in her love for her children. She did the very best she could for all of us, even when life made that incredibly difficult.

Our mom was one of the strongest individuals you could ever meet. She was never dealt an easy hand and faced more hardship and strife than most, yet she never gave up. No matter what she went through, she kept pushing forward with determination, resilience, and grace. Her strength wasn’t loud or boastful—it was steady, enduring, and grounded in faith.

She loved the Lord deeply and lived her life anchored in her Christian faith. Prayer was part of her daily routine, and through every trial she trusted that God would carry her through. Her faith sustained her, gave her hope, and shaped the way she loved others.

She worked hard throughout her life, most often as a waitress, a job that suited her warm heart and joyful personality. Her final place of work was Golden Corral in Jacksonville, Florida, where she was truly loved by coworkers and customers alike. She got along with everyone she met, made people feel welcome, and brought happiness wherever she went. She had a natural way of connecting with people, and her smile and kindness left a lasting impression.

She loved animals and found peace in nature, appreciating God’s creation in its simplest and most beautiful forms. Cooking was another way she expressed love—especially during holidays. Easter was her favorite, and family gatherings filled with good food and togetherness meant everything to her. Her chicken and dumplings were unforgettable, a comfort food that will always remind us of home and her love.

She loved her parents very deeply and carried that love with her throughout her life.

She also leaves behind her soulmate, Christopher Hawk, with whom she shared more than 33 years of life and love. Their bond was enduring, marked by loyalty, companionship, and a shared journey through life’s ups and downs.

Our mother was full of spirit, character, and charisma. When you hugged her, you could feel her love—it was genuine, comforting, and real. Though she is no longer with us, her strength, faith, kindness, and love will live on through her children, her family, and everyone whose life she touched.

She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.