Shirley Jean Thompson

Shirley Thompson, born November 4, 1951, in San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on September 18, 2025, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, surrounded by her loving family.

She was the daughter of Mammie May “Beene” Blakeney and Art Orville Blakeney. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Catherine Carol “Blakeney” McRoberts.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Thompson of Rio Rancho, NM; her son, Billy Joe Paulk Jr., and daughter-in-law, Shannon Paulk of McCleary, WA; her daughter, Angela Thompson of Rio Rancho, NM; her sister, Linda “Blakeney” Schneeman of Texas; her brother, John Blakeney of Abilene, TX; as well as eight grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren.

After earning her GED, Shirley continued her education at the University of New Mexico and Central New Mexico Community College, where she studied Business Administration. She went on to enjoy a successful career of more than 20 years with Kaman Sciences, where she worked on multi-million-dollar government contracts.

Shirley was exceptionally talented and creative, expressing her gifts through beaded jewelry, bookmarks, quilts, crocheted blankets, and children’s clothing. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who will forever cherish her love, warmth, and creativity.