Audrey Thompson

Audrey Thompson

September 13, 1943 - February 04, 2024

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Obituary

Audrey Kay Olson Thompson, 80, of Billings, MT, peacefully passed away on February 4, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.


Audrey was born on September 13, 1943, to Willard and Julia Olson on the farm in Regent, ND. After Audrey graduated from Regent High School in 1961, she pursued a degree in education at Dickinson State College.


After graduation, she briefly taught high school English at Plentywood High School. Audrey then took time off to stay home and raise her 2 children. In 1983, Audrey completed her Master's Degree in Counseling at Northern Montana College. At that time, she was working as a paraprofessional in a special education setting. She returned to the classroom as a high school English teacher and also a school counselor. Six years later, Audrey became the Vice President for Student Affairs at College of Great Falls. During her tenure there, she earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership in 1995. Audrey was passionate about education and helping others achieve.


Audrey was always forward thinking and ahead of her time, which first became evident in her Valedictorian speech. With her amazing talent and creativity, she remodeled several homes, refinished antique furniture, and was a master seamstress. She obtained her private pilot's license in 1976. She was very spiritual with sound faith in her God.


In 1962, Audrey met Roger in Dagmar, MT. They announced their engagement in 1963 and married on July 10, 1964. Roger and Audrey went on to have 2 children, Melanie and Nathan.


Audrey never fully retired. Her passion to help others was evident up until she wasn't able to live independently. Even then, she continued to counsel others as best she could. In the weeks before her passing, she commented she was ready to start applying for jobs again or go back to teaching.


Audrey was predeceased by her mother, Julia, and her father, Willard; her brother-in-law, Rodney, nephew Travis Thompson, niece Kayla Thompson. She is survived by her husband, Roger, daughter Melanie (Duane), Logan (Meghan), Janessa (Kyler), son Nathan (Johanna), Zachary, and Hattie, sister Ann (Dave), in-laws, nieces and nephews and their families. A memorial is planned for March 30th at DanWalt Gardens at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association.

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BK
Bonnie Kolden
Other •
Just got word that Audrey passed away! She was also a good friend when we lived in GreatFalls! Many good memories through the years! I have been missing her alot these last years! I'm so sorry for the families loss! Glad for the comfort that she has no more sickness. Love, Bonnie and Norman
BC
Benita chapman
Other •
I worked with sweet Audrey at Highgate. I absolutely adored her. She loved her new blanket i got her and would show me everyday i worked how much she loved the blanket and how I was a good granddaughter. Audrey will be greatly missed. I would always remember her coming when I got to work to give me a big hug. She knew who I was because before bed ahe would look for me and wait for me to take her to put pajamas on them we prayed together. Im.going to miss her but she is free no more pokes for sugars. No more being told she can't have icecream like the others could. I'm so sorry for the family's loss. She would want to call nathan when i got there. I will miss the smiles ans laughs when all tucked in for bed. Love benita chapman
PD
Pat Dimzoff
Other •
Audrey was such a dear friend. We raised our kids at the same time and shared so much. She was a dear “sister”.
JD
Jody Davis
Other •
Mrs. Thompson was my English teacher in Power my freshman through junior year. She was very kind and was always willing to counsel high school girl drama. We were always amazed by her hair. I remember discussions on how long it took her to do it in the morning and wondering how long it truly was since she always wore it up. Rest in peace Mrs. Thompson. Thank you for being part of my childhood. ❤️
MO
Michelle Rypczynski O'Loughlin
Other •
Audrey was my high school English teacher, counselor and class advisor. She was loved very much at Power High School. I always remember her hair up. Never saw it down until our Senior trip to Edmonton, I shared a room with her on our trip. She left after my Senior year but I continued to see her just about everyday as I got my degree from the College of Great Falls. She will always be one of my favorite teachers.
TY
Teresa Yakoweshen
Other •
My condolences to Audrey’s precious family. Audrey made an impact on my heart. She hired me at the College of Great Falls many years ago. She encouraged me to take college courses as my plans were not to do college. I ended up receiving a bachelor’s degree. She was supportive and helped me not only as my boss but as my friend. She demonstrated God’s love and care for others. She was a blessing to me and am so thankful for our friendship. I always wanted to make a visit to see her Billings after she moved there from Helena but I never made it. My daughter in law would see her at high gate because she worked there and I’d always ask about her and send my love. Miss you Audrey - I know you are at peace and are in Heaven. Until we meet again. Holding on to the memories close to my heart. Love u ❤️

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