Janet Lee Thompson, a compassionate, loving, and deeply devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2026.

Janet was born in 1943 in Dorchester, Massachusetts and relocated to Marshall, Texas early in life. She graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in education and began her career in Houston. Relocating to Kennewick, Washington in 1989, Janet became the school librarian at Lewis and Clark Elementary in Richland, WA. After three decades in education she retired to her home in Pasco, WA.

Janet spent her life bringing laughter and warmth to those around her. As a retired school teacher, she inspired the lives of countless children in the community with her patience, guidance, and quick wit. Outside of the classroom, Janet was happiest when she was near the water or outdoors, finding immense joy in camping trips and the peaceful expanse of the ocean.

Above all, J. Lee loved her family fiercely. She was the absolute anchor of her home, sharing a beautiful, lifelong devotion with her husband, Rex Thompson. Her comedic stories, gentle spirit, and the boundless love she poured into her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother leave a lasting legacy that her family will cherish forever.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Rex Thompson, as well as her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will miss her beyond measure but carry her joyful spirit forward.

In lieu of flowers, please make charitable donations to the Children’s Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia (read20minutes.com) in the name of Janet Lee Thompson. A celebration of life to honor J. Lee will be announced at a later date.