Tanya Thompson

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Tanya Thompson, who left us far too soon on February 11, 2026, at the age of 53, surrounded by the love of her family in Lansing, NY.

Born on January 25, 1973, to Paul and Grace Turo, Tanya was known from an early age for her rare and beautiful spirit. In 1991, she graduated from Moravia High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in School Counseling from SUNY Brockport. From a young age, her goal was to become a school counselor.

For 17 years, she served as a school counselor at Southern Cayuga School District, and for the past 8 years, she was the middle school counselor at Lansing Central School. In her work, she led with compassion while teaching others to live with intention. Finding the good in others and in yourself, was her mission.

While she gave so much to her students and community, her family was her true joy and passion. In 1991, Tanya met Aaron, the love of her life, who made her laugh and smile every day. They built a life together fueled by love and adventure. They married in 2001, and Tanya was a caring, devoted, and loving wife. In 2005, they welcomed their daughter Erin, and in 2008, their son Ryan. This family was Tanya’s greatest love and purpose. Being a mom was her deepest joy. She was wholeheartedly devoted to her children and gave all of herself to them; forgiving, inspiring, and steadfast in every way. She eagerly and lovingly looked forward to becoming a grandmother someday.

Known as a gentle soul with an infectious smile, she carried a positive and unwavering light that touched everyone she met. Tanya did not simply move through the world; she made it better for anyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Tanya was characterized by a deep compassion for others, often prioritizing the needs of friends, family, and community members above her own. Even during her treatment, she found ways to give back to those responsible for her care. She listened with compassion, encouraged others, and inspired them through her “Tanya-isms” to find the good and be the good.

Tanya was predeceased by her mother, Grace Turo. She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Aaron; her children, Erin and Ryan; her father, Paul (Val) Turo; her brother, Paulie (Aubin) Turo and their children, Thane, Shea, and Gage; her father- and mother-in-law, David and Helen Thompson; her brothers-in-law, Matthew (Amy) Thompson and their son, Tyler, and Nathan (Katie) Thompson and their son, Ethan. She is also survived by several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of life for family and close friends will be held on Saturday, February 21, at Lansing United Methodist Church. All are welcome to the Community Service held from 2:00–3:00 PM at the Lansing Middle School Auditorium. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow in the Lansing High School cafeteria and gymnasium, with light refreshments, memory writing, gymnasium games, and family table games, all of the simple things Tanya loved.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Cancer Resource Center.  Tanya's family is being assisted by the Shurtleff Funeral Home, and online condolences may be shared at www.shurtleffservices.com .

One of Tanya’s final wishes was that we not sit for long in the sadness and grief of her loss, but instead go out and spread kindness and love wherever we go.

Find the good. Be the good.

She was the best.

Stay healthy and free