Dorothy Joanne Thompson

Dorothy “Joann” Thompson, 79, was peacefully called home to her Heavenly Father on October 1, 2024.  Born on March 1, 1945, in West Friendship, MD, she was the daughter of Arthur F. Thompson Jr. and Catherine L. Thompson (née James). Her family later settled in Sykesville, where she blossomed into a vibrant, kind-hearted soul. Dorothy attended school in Howard County, and from a young age her warmth, resilience, and love for life became her signature traits.

Her heart found joy in simple pleasures—listening to classic country music, gathering with family for cookouts, swimming in the backyard family pool, and even participating in the Howard County Special Olympics. 

In 1981, Dorothy embarked on a new chapter with The Arc of Howard County, moving into a home where she forged deep friendships and embraced the independence she so treasured. In January 1996, she realized one of her dreams by moving into her  own apartment, living independently with the support of caring staff.  Dorothy loved life.  She also loved tending to her plants, and enjoyed shopping, watching movies, visiting her friends, attending church, bird watching, collecting stuffed animals, and she especially enjoyed vacationing! Her life in the community was marked by her vibrant spirit and enduring sense of self, creating a legacy of strength, joy, and love.

Dorothy's working years were filled with dedication and pride, as she held positions at the Applied Physics Laboratory, Roy Rogers, and McDonald’s before retiring. Her colleagues and friends admired her unwavering optimism and lively humor.

Dorothy is survived by her nieces, Sheri Vendemia and her husband, Atilio Vendemia, and Brandi Lock and her husband, Greg Lock, many distant cousins, and her extended family of many friends and compassionate staff from The Arc of Howard County, who became part of the fabric of her life. Preceding her in death are her beloved parents, Arthur and Catherine Thompson, and her siblings, Thomas E. Thompson, Catherine A. Healey, and Terri L. Thompson, along with many aunts and uncles. 

During her long and courageous battle with cancer, Dorothy’s faith, humor, and strong will to live persevered. Dorothy’s life was a testament to resilience, joy, and the beauty of the human spirit. She taught us all the importance of embracing life with unwavering gratitude. Her smile, her laugh, and her kind heart will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her or to have met her. 

A memorial service celebrating Dorothy’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on October 25, 2024, at Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dorothy’s name may be made to The Arc of Howard County.

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