Family will receive friends Friday June 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m. at Oasis Love Community Church, 3171 Schwartz Rd. Columbus, OH 43232. Interment: Forestlawn Cemetery.

Kathleen Carole (Harris) Thompson, was born at home on December 24, 1942, less than one hour before Christmas Day in Maybeury, WV to the late Howard Hobart and Annie (nee Howe) Harris. Her father worked as a coal miner and her mother was a homemaker.  She was the first-born of four sisters and a brother who all predeceased her:  Annie Yvonne, Sylvia Celestine, baby brother Harris and Nadine Louise.  

Growing up in the picturesque hills of Bluefield, Virginia, Kathleen developed a profound love for music, inspired by her parents. Her musical journey began at an early age, as she played the piano and sang in school and her church choir at Tabernacle Baptist Church. In her late teens and early twenties, she performed with a band, showcasing her talent and passion for music. Kathleen earned her degree in Piano from Bluefield State College, a testament to her dedication and love for the art.

Kathleen married and moved to Columbus, OH to earn her Master's Degree in Education, begin her teaching career and raise her three children. She taught special needs adults for many years at Columbus Development Center, then began an amazing 45-year career at Columbus State Community College (previously CTI, Columbus Technical Institute) teaching writing and grammar skills to generations of students. She was a no-nonsense, spunky, sassy and witty teacher and tutor, coming to work dressed like a fashion plate and only missing a handful of work days in all those years!

As the matriarch of the Harris family, Kathleen opened her home to family members in need and hosted countless gatherings filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Her artistic flair was evident in her beautifully decorated home, adorned with plants, family heirlooms, and photographs that told the story of her life and the love she shared with her family. A true Christmas enthusiast, Kathleen found joy in thoughtfully selecting gifts for her children and grandchildren throughout the years, even keeping a Christmas tree up year-round to spread holiday cheer.

Kathleen’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She renewed her relationship with Jesus and served in the soup kitchen at Shiloh Baptist Church for many years. At Gethsemane United Methodist Church, she actively participated in Children’s Church classes and the Hope Letters ministry as a “Hope Angel” (‘Mom Angel’), sharing her love and compassion with those in need.  

She generously supported various ministries that spread the gospel of Christ and was a fierce believer in the power and authority of God’s word, often praying for family and the state of affairs in the U.S. and around the world. She would share with family how God answered her prayers!

Kathleen is survived by her three cherished children, Pamela Pavanne Thompson-Cook (Vaughn), Philana Faye Harper (Shawn) and Gregory Scott Thompson (Tameka), along with her beloved grandchildren: Jasmine Thompson, Cache Howell, Greg Thompson Jr., Tylar Thompson, Isaiah Thompson, Joshua Cook, Caleb Harper, Jacob Cook, Malakai Thompson, Khalil Thompson, Khamal Thompson and Layla Thompson, as well as her great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  Her memory will also be cherished by special friends June Rosenburg, Kraig Alex, Joseph Foster and lifetime friend Mrs. Shirley Walker.

To all who knew her, Kathleen was an icon of strength, love, and tenacity. She used her voice of wisdom to guide many in making better life decisions, always encouraging others to seek the truth and embrace faith. Her heartfelt desire was for everyone to know Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

As we celebrate the life of Kathleen Carole (Harris) Thompson, we remember her unwavering spirit, her love for family, and her deep faith. She has left a profound impact on all who were fortunate enough to know her and to love her and her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all.

Rest in peace, dear Kathleen; your light will forever shine in our hearts!!