Gena L. Thompson

On Sunday, October 9, 2022, Mrs. Gena Thompson transitioned into eternal rest. Age 78 years. Gena was born October 18, 1943, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Louise and Willie Reed Sr.

Gena "Big Sis" was a graduate of Saginaw High School where she participated on the track team, gymnastics, and the debate team. She also attended Delta College where she studied education and interior design/upholstery. She was a superb, excellent cook who loved cooking, traveling, gardening, bowling, hunting, drawing, designing clothes, upholstery work, and decorating. GENA'S ELEGANCE, GRACE, AND BEAUTY, were reflected in all of the unlimited things she did. Gena had been a member of Grace Chapel since childhood. She served as the President of the Women's Group, a member of the Praise Team, Church Counsel, and a Sunday school teacher. Gena was a teacher's aide in the Saginaw School district. Most of all, Gena loved her wonderful family and church family. Gena's beautiful, giving, and caring spirit was always evident, and she was known affectionately as "Mom♥" to many. Gena always had a big heart with an infinite amount of love to give and she loved and cherished her husband, Joe, "Always & Forever" and all of the wonderful times they shared growing up and in love. Gena and Joe have been members of Grace Chapel where they were married since childhood, They also served and participated in various activities and groups. Gena was so proud of the legacy she and Joe built throughout their years of marriage.

Gena leaves to celebrate her legacy, her husband, Joe Thompson; three daughters, Valarie (James) Lee, Veronica (Monte) Mills, and Victoria Thompson-Valley; grandchildren, DeShone Valley II, Marc (Vanessia) Mills, DeMario (Bree) Thomas, Tobias Lee, Anandy Lee, Jaylon (Michaela) Mills, Anthony Mills and Sharrae Mills; bonus granddaughter, Klarisie Butler; great-grandchildren, Marc Mills Jr., Jaylon Mills Jr., Sydnee and Stephon Myles, and Makiyah Mills; two sisters, Delores Hickman and Denice Reed; three brothers, James Reed, Paul Reed and Charles Porterfield; special nieces and nephews, Sabrina (William) Jenkins, Nicole Reed-Barnes, Mansel Reed Jr., Marco (Lisa) Reed, Gowon Hickmon, Jamila King, Brandi, Anthony and LeAnna Reed, Angelica Reed-Smith, Lawanna Reed, Niasha Reed, Ryan McBride, Chantel Reed, Jamie (Florence), Nicholas, Deidra, and Eric Thompson, and Alexis Mitchell; godchildren, Shawnisha Landrum, Kaylan and Khyron Landrum, Nyimah and Kurtez Reeves, Kelvis,Tullus and Rodney Sears, Brian Hillman, Johnnie and Tracey Taylor, Nikia and Nikesha Cliff, Sam, Tony, Duane, and Lowery Genwright Jr.; several cousins including special cousins, Angelus and Wesley Guillory, Vivian, Debbie (Douglas), Sherry, Anthony and Danalou Anderson, Gary Hunt Sr., Willard Jr., Larry, Ricky, and Charles (Sophronia) Sparks; special friends, Rhodan "Mother Ray," Susie (Curtis) Owens, Lowery, Theresa, Amelia and Pat Genwright, Mary Hillman, Jonita Reeves, Pastor James and Mrs. Odie Nelson; many other relatives and friends.

Gena was preceded in death by her parents, Louise and Willie Reed Sr.; one son, Andre L. Thompson; two brothers, Mansel "Bubbie" Reed, Sr. and Willie Reed Jr.; nephew, Manchez Reed; one aunt, Evelyn Guillory; uncles, Dan, John, Ben and James Anderson; cousin, Patricia Charles; and special friends, Cassandra Landrum and Lottie Sears.

The family would like to express special thanks to everyone who offered condolences, kind words, and prayers. Your heartfelt love and support is sincerely appreciated. It has truly touched our hearts.