Mary and Lee Thompson

Mary (Halbrook) and Lee Thompson, devoted partners in life for more than 73 years, passed away hand-in-hand just hours apart, a final testament to the remarkable bond they shared. Lee passed peacefully at the age of 98, with Mary joining him shortly after at the age of 94. Their love, loyalty, and shared sense of adventure defined a life lived fully and beautifully together.

Lee Thompson was born on October 7, 1927. A proud Marine Corps veteran who served during World War II, he later dedicated his career to public service as a Captain with the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Lee carried a deep sense of honor, integrity, and duty throughout his life.

Mary Halbrook was born on July 16, 1931. A gifted educator, she spent her career shaping young minds as a schoolteacher in Springfield, Missouri. Outside the classroom, she was an avid reader and talented cross-stich artist, known for her warmth, grace, and quick wit.

The two were married on July 26, 1953, beginning a partnership marked by devotion and shared dreams. In retirement, they continued their lifelong adventure together-splitting time between Springfield and life on the water aboard their beloved houseboat. They called ports along the East Coast, Bermuda, and the Caribbean home, with a special fondness for Florida's coastal beauty. Later, they embarked on one last grand journey, joining an around-the-world cruise that took them to 29 countries and across both the equator and International Date Line.

In their later years, Mary and Lee made their final home in Surprise, Arizona, where they embraced new friendships and the peace of stunning desert sunsets framed by mountain silhouettes.

Though they had no children of their own, Mary and Lee deeply cherished their family and leave behind many loving nieces and nephews. Lee was preceded in death by his brother, Robert "Red" Thompson, and sister, Kathleen. Mary was preceded in death by her siblings, Charles William Halbrook, James R. "Jim" Halbrook, Leta M. Lough, and infant brother Arthur Fountain Halbrook.

Mary and Lee will be laid to rest together at Desert Palms Methodist Church in Surprise, Arizona-forever side by side, just as they were in life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Doctors Without Borders or The Salvation Army, honoring Mary and Lee's lifelong spirit of compassion and service.