Mary Thompson, age 86 of Elwood, passed away February 2, 2012 at the Lexington Regional Health Center.

Mary was born March 27, 1925 at Farnam, Nebraska to LeRoy and Hazel (Farmer) Tillotson. She was a graduate of Farnam High School. Following her graduation, Mary attended Kearney Teacher's College and earned her teaching certification. She would go on to teach in a rural school in the Plum Creek area.

On March 4, 1950, Mary was united in marriage to Leonard Thompson at Elwood. The couple made their home at Elwood where they raised their 7 children, Betty, Karen, Sandra, Susan, George, Gary and Kent.

Mary loved spending time doing outdoors activities. She was an avid gardener; and as a result of her talent, would always have an abundance of vegetables to can and share. Chief among her many enjoyments, was spending time with her family.

Mary was a long-time member of the United Methodist Church at Elwood, and had served as a past President of the United Methodist Women.

A memorial has been established in her memory. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard in 1990; her parents; sister, Leola Haney; brother, LeRoy Tillotson; and a great grandson, Caden.

Mary is lovingly survived by her 4 daughters, Betty (Steve) Kniss of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Karen (Kevin) Exstrom of Columbus, MT, Sandra (Kurt) Kinsman of San Antonio, TX, Susan (Gale) Shafer of Edison, NE; 3 sons, George (Linda) Thompson of Snellville, GA, Gary (Louise) Thompson of Collinsville, OK, Kent Thompson of Elwood; brother, Raymond (Mildred) Tillotson of Farnam, NE; 13 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Services will be held on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church at Elwood with Pastor Connie Carr officiating. Burial will be at 3:00 p.m. at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery at Maxwell.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 6, 2012, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Elwood.

Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad is in charge of arrangements.

Beryyman Funeral Home, 4 Feb 2012