Trenda Lee Thompson

Trenda Lee Thompson, a loving and giving woman of love and compassion to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, after an extended illness, in Mississippi Baptist Medical Center, Jackson, MS. Trenda was born on March 13, 1958, to the late James Thompson Sr. and Mae Oma (Nicks) Thompson at Pawating Hospital, Niles, Michigan.

She was a proud graduate of Niles High School but decided the college life was not for her, she wasn't leaving her family and friends! She found her place in cooking! Being raised in the church, there was no question that at some point in life she would be baptized. At the tender age of ten, she took the step to Christianity and was baptized at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Niles under the pastorage of the late Rev. W. Danzy. She shared her faith and love by singing in the church choir and in the church youth department. Along with the rest of the family, she could often be seen cleaning the church, inside and out. Her years of employment in Niles were spent at Sheller Globe as a "top" machine operator and a security guard at St. Joseph County Jail. In early 2000, Trenda made a selfless decision that would shape the next chapter of her life. She moved to Mississippi to help care for her father. While there, she devoted many years of service to Fred's Inc. (Fred's), a chain of discount general merchandise stores across the Southeastern United States. At Fred's she managed stores, opened new locations, and trained future managers. She later served as store general manager in Clinton, Mississippi, becoming a staple in that community. Customers came and went, but Trenda remained a steady and welcoming presence. Known for her leadership, fairness, and tireless work ethic, she took pride in her work and in mentoring others to grow. In Mississippi Trenda planted roots that would grow deep and strong. What began as an act of devotion became a permanent home. For more than 25 years, she embraced Pearl, Mississippi, building community, forming lasting friendships, and becoming a beloved and familiar presence to so many. Though Pearl became her home, her heart always held a special place for Niles. It brings comfort to know that she will now find her final rest here in Niles, Michigan, returning home in peace

Trenda was a woman of many gifts. She earned the title of "Lady T" when she shared her love for music as a D. J. at numerous events and gatherings. While all of her gifts were a joy, none was more memorable than her cooking and her remarkable ability to play a hand of cards. If you wanted it, she could cook it, and she cooked it well. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and healing. The same Sunday meals enjoyed in Niles became tradition In Mississippi as well. A gathering around Trenda's table was an experience rooted in love. Cooking was her therapy and her ministry; she found joy in feeding others and watching them savor every bite. No one ever left her home hungry, and few ever left without feeling deeply cared for. And when the cards came out, she was just as masterful, keeping up the family tradition. Any game placed before her, she could play and play well. Through countless spade card games filled with spirited competition and laughter, she built treasured memories and lasting bonds with her beloved Mississippi circle of friends, Dorothy, Tina, Wilma, Crystal, Angie, Josephine, affectionately known as Jojo, and Juan. The home town included, Pat Thompson, Billy Anderson Jr., Ivery Cross, Sim Fox, Bruce Smith, and many more too numerous to name who all became family.

She mastered that art of cooking by watching her mother and Big Momma (Grandmother, Mother Rosie Lee Haynes). It gave her great joy to pass on traditional recipes and delightful dishes to her nieces and those that wanted to learn the art. Family meant everything to Trenda. Any opportunity to gather, celebrate, or support a loved one was one she embraced wholeheartedly. She was a dependable friend, just one phone call away, ready to show up, help, or simply listen. Everyone she met became "family" if they were around her for an hour. They really had no choice, she accepted people for who they were, always showing love and deep compassion that supported whatever height they wanted to reach. Her love and kindness reached far and wide, touching countless hearts and lives throughout her journey. She also cherished meaningful moments and often talked about traveling back to Niles for family visits and to Washington, D.C., to witness the first inauguration of President Barack Obama, an experience she held close to her heart. Trenda was truly a jewel-loyal, generous, compassionate, and strong. Her life was a testament to service, friendship, family, and love, and her legacy will live on in every meal shared, every card dealt, and every life she so beautifully touched.

Trenda will be deeply missed by her siblings, Gloria (Miles) Stansberry of Sodus, Leonard Truvillion of Cassopolis, Rachel Phillips of South Bend, James Thompson Jr. of Champlin, MN, and Georgianna Thompson of Pearl, MS; 5 nephews; 7 nieces; a host of nephews, nieces, Great nieces and nephews; numerous cousins and awesome friends; special cousins, Dorthy Jenkins, Josephine (.JoJo) Fell and Angela Thompson-Shoto, and a God-son, Juan McCullum.

Preceding her in death were her parents, James Thompson, Sr., and Mae Oma Prichett; maternal grandparents, Thomas F. Nicks and Rosie Lee Nicks-Haynes; siblings, Linetta Smith, Anthony and Michael Thompson (twins deceased at birth); uncles, Cleopher, Thomas, and Lee Nicks, and her God-daughter, Shaletta Parchmon.

Whenever a meal is made, we will always think of Trenda, the family chef. She will be missed for her deep love for all of her family and dear friends. She was always a supporter, a confidant, and helped in any way she could. Her unwavering support and unconditional love were a family trait handed down from Big Momma, and it had an enduring impact on everyone she met. The life she lived was loving and deserves to be remembered with love. Trenda Lee Thompson will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She would want each of us to continue this same love with family and anyone we are blessed to meet. Rest in peace Trenda, until we meet again.

Visitation for Trenda will be on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 11:00am to 12:00pm with a Funeral Service to be held at 12:00pm at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, 615 Ferry St. Niles, Michigan 49120.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.

Photos, condolences, and memories may be shared with Trenda's family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com