Jo Ellen Thompson

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jo Ellen "Joey" Thompson, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, who departed this life on July 18, 2024, at the age of 68, after bravely battling cancer. Jo Ellen was born on December 14, 1955, in City of Orange Township, New Jersey, to William Albert "Al" Salmon and Priscilla Rhodes Salmon, whose love and guidance shaped the woman she became. Following her relocation to Minnesota, Jo Ellen met the love of her life, Ted Thompson, at the Jesus People Church in Minneapolis. Following a brief courtship, they were united in marriage on December 15, 1979. They built a home in Linwood Township where they raised their two sons, Will and Mike. Later brought forth the joy of their grandchildren, Lila and Violet. Embracing the role of grandmother with grace and enthusiasm, she gladly took every opportunity to babysit their granddaughters, creating cherished moments and unforgettable memories with them. In addition to being a dedicated homemaker, Jo Ellen possessed a creative spirit, finding solace and joy in hobbies such as crocheting, playing the piano, gardening, and indulging in various crafts. Her keen eye for beauty allowed her to capture the essence of everyday life through her photography, leaving behind snapshots of the world as she saw it. Known for her infectious laughter, kind-hearted nature, and unwavering optimism, Jo Ellen sought to see the good in everyone she encountered, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is preceded in death by her parents; brother William "Bill" Salmon. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her including her husband of 44 years, Ted; sons, Will, Mike (Jen); granddaughters, Lila and Violet; siblings, Virginia Horvath, James (Diana) Salmon, Margorie (Anthony) Fumosa, Amy (Steve) Deutsch, Thomas Salmon; many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:30 a.m., Thursday, August 1, 2024 at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. Private interment will be held later that day at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens cemetery, Albert Lea, Minnesota. May she rest in peace, her memory forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew her.