Penelope Anne Thompson

Penelope Anne Thompson, lovingly known as "Mimi," passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the age of 83 after a long and courageous battle with COPD. A true queen, she fought so hard to spend as much time with her family as she could and stayed strong and positive until her very last days. Born on March 20, 1942, in Detroit, she carried an enduring pride for her hometown throughout her life.

She was born to the late Kenneth and Geraldine Thompson and grew up alongside her younger sister, Janice Cotant. Many of her fondest childhood memories were spent with her parents, Jan, and the Wagner family, stories she carried close to her heart and shared often.

Penelope attended Cooley High School and was a proud member of Di Delta Di, a sisterhood that remained deeply meaningful to her throughout her life.

Penelope was the first in her family to attend college, an accomplishment she held with deep pride. She graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in education and began her professional career as an English and geography teacher. Her love of grammar never faded, and her grandchildren continued to receive thoughtful and sometimes hilariously blunt corrections well into adulthood.

Later, she discovered her creative passion in wallpapering and decorating, a chapter she often described as the time of her life. She cherished the opportunity to collaborate closely with her daughter, blending decorating with laughter, creativity, and unforgettable memories.

Mimi was hilarious, brutally honest, endlessly positive, supportive, and truly one of a kind. She had a radiant smile, a sharp wit, and a presence that lit up every room. To know her was to love her.

She was not only Mimi to her own family, but to the entire Central Park community, always ready with heartfelt advice, whether you asked for it or not, or a perfectly timed comment.

A true fashionista, she got ready every single day up until the end, with lipstick perfectly applied, hair done, and outfits planned days in advance. She would never hesitate to tell you whether you looked good or not.

She was an avid card player and loved her monthly Lansing Bridge group. Even in her final days, she insisted on playing Kings in the Corner. She loved trips to the casino, playing slots, and the thrill of the game.

She also found joy in sewing, the Detroit Tigers, her iPad, traveling, online shopping, and a cold glass of bottom shelf Chardonnay.

Above all else, she was devoted to her family and always showed up. Our traditions were her traditions. She loved unconditionally, listened deeply, and gave the kind of advice that stayed with you. Her favorite reminder, "It will all work out," continues to echo in the hearts of those she loved.

She is survived by her two children, Kenneth John Rose and his wife, Lana Busignani, and Christine Elise Rose and her husband, Erik Billimoria; her beloved grandchildren, Gretchen, Ava, Vance, Ruby, and Willa; her sister, Janice Cotant; her nieces and nephews, Maggie, Jimmy (Frank), Molly, and Pat (Polly); her great-niece, Sofia; her great-nephews, Jacob, Simon, Miles, and Fletcher; and many cherished family and friends.

Nothing brought her greater joy than her grandchildren. Kenny and Lana welcomed three wonderful children, Gretchen, Vance, and Willa Rose. She cherished each of them deeply and took immense pride in the people they are becoming. Chrissy and Erik were blessed with two daughters, Ava and Ruby Billimoria, lovingly known as Mimi's best friends, who grew up with her by their side.

Mimi will also be remembered for her iconic chicken dumpling soup and her famously unpredictable but always requested beef stroganoff, somehow different every time, yet perfect in its own way.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, honesty, style, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. Saying she will be missed beyond words is an understatement. The depth of her absence will be felt forever.

xxx/ooo

Memorial donations may be made to Angela Hospice in Livonia, Michigan, in gratitude for the compassionate care they provided to Mimi in her final months.