Virginia Belle Thompson

Virginia Belle Thompson, born on July 16, 1925, in Vallejo, California, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, in Chesterfield, Missouri. A gentle soul and a devoted matriarch, Virginia’s life was a testament to the enduring strength and warmth of family.

Throughout her career, Virginia dedicated many years to Union Electric, retiring with a legacy of commitment and hard work. Yet retirement did not slow her spirit; she continued to embrace life by working at Forum Center Pharmacy. It was there she found joy in a simple yet heartfelt pursuit — lovingly selecting the most special Beanie Babies for her cherished grandchildren. Beyond her workplace contributions, Virginia generously gave her time volunteering for the American Cancer Society, reflecting her compassionate nature and desire to make a positive impact beyond her family.

Virginia’s heart was truly tethered to those she loved most. A devoted wife to her late husband, Patrick Thomas Thompson, she embraced her roles as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother with unwavering love. Family was her greatest pride and joy. She was survived by her daughters Kathleen (Robert) Behle, Deborah Podgorski, and Leslie Gulley, who carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. Her grandchildren—Steven Podgorski, Michael (Emily) Podgorski (preceded in death), Laura (Michael) Hill, Kathryn (Brett) Hanson, Kristen Holton, Andrea (Timothy) Kaufmann, Lyle (Callie) Gulley III, and Jaclyn (John) Lenich—alongside a host of great-grandchildren, filled her life with light and laughter. Among her great-grandchildren were Max Podgorski, Charlotte Hill, Gabriel Hill, Henry Hill, Annie Hill, Grace Hanson, Patrick Hanson, Jack Hanson, Lotsie Holton, Virginia “Nina” Holton, Evie Holton, Eleanor Kaufmann, George Kaufmann, Lyle Gulley IV, Lainey Gulley, Landon Lenich, Logan Lenich, Lindsey Lenich, and Lauren Lenich.

Virginia’s devotion extended beyond her family to the animals she so deeply loved. Her gentle presence was a comfort to all around her. An avid reader and enthusiastic follower of sports, particularly the Cardinals baseball team, she found joy in the stories of books and the excitement of the game. Most of all, Virginia relished the connection of conversation, often spending time on the phone, weaving threads of love and connection with those dear to her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Patrick Thomas Thompson, her grandson Michael Podgorski (whose wife Emily survives), her parents Earl and Margaret Moore, and her sister Eleanor Moore.

Virginia’s life will be celebrated with a visitation on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass at Sainte Genevieve du Bois Catholic Church in Warson Woods, Missouri, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Florissant, Missouri, at 12:45 p.m.

Though Virginia Belle Thompson has passed from this world, the radiant love she gave so freely remains forever in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a beacon of gentleness and devotion, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose legacy of love will continue to inspire and comfort her family for generations to come.

Virginia's family wishes to thank the staff and caregivers of Sunrise Senior Living in Chesterfield for their kindness, love, and support. 

To share a memory of Virginia or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.