Etta Rae Thompson

Cookeville--Mrs. Etta Rae Thompson, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on April 29, 2024, in Cookeville, TN. Born on October 6, 1929, in the Dry Hollow community of Overton County, TN, she was a cherished daughter to the late Haskell and Dorothy Raines Looper. Etta Rae's life was a testament to her strength, devotion, and the joy she spread to everyone she met.

Etta Rae was the beloved matriarch of her family, revered for her unwavering support and caring nature. Though she was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Arnold L. Thompson; her sister, Beulah Mae Thompson; her brother, WJ Looper; and her son-in-law, Luther Mee, her spirit of love and guidance continues to live on through her children. She is survived by her son and dedicated caregiver, Tim Thompson, of Algood; her daughters, Gail Boring, of Maryville, TN, Bernice Mee and significant other Roy Maberry, of Cookeville, and Sarah (Andrew) Sosnowski, of Vonore, TN. Etta Rae was a sister to Anna Jean McCowan, and a cherished grandmother to Jonathon Roberts, Christi Bullock, and Jaime Mee. Her legacy further blossoms through her great-grandchild, Sam Roberts, who brought her immense joy.

A loving homemaker, Etta Rae also shared her talents with the community through her work. She was a skilled seamstress at the former Cookeville Shirt Factory and later contributed her craftsmanship to Russell Stover Candy, where she made boxes for the holidays. Her dedication and care were not limited to her home and work; she was a devoted and active member of Dodson Chapel Church. There, she served by teaching Sunday school, cleaning the church, and participating in numerous other church activities while able to do so.

Etta Rae's hands were rarely still, as they were often busy with quilting, crocheting, or knitting-crafts that she excelled in and found great pleasure. Her love for growing flowers was evident in the vibrant blooms that surrounded her home, a symbol of the beauty she cultivated in her life and the lives of others. She also enjoyed the simple pleasure of walking with her neighbors, an activity that reflected her community spirit and her appreciation for the companionship of those around her.

Described by all who knew her as loving and faith-filled, Etta Rae was a pillar of her family and community. Her unwavering support and the warmth of her kind spirit were the threads that wove her family together. She was a supportive and caring lady, whose family-oriented nature made her home a haven of comfort and joy.

Etta Rae Thompson's journey on earth may have come to a close, but the impact of her love and faith will continue to resonate with all who were fortunate enough to have known her. Her life was a beautiful patchwork of devotion, service, and the tender care she provided to everyone she touched. She will be deeply missed, yet her legacy will bloom perennially in the hearts of her family and friends.

As we bid farewell to Mrs. Etta Rae Thompson, we celebrate the cherished memories she created, the wisdom she imparted, and the love she gave so freely. Her life was a true embodiment of the virtues she valued most, and she leaves behind a path illuminated by her enduring spirit. May we find comfort in knowing that her legacy of love and faith will continue to guide us, just as her presence always did.

Funeral services for Etta Rae Thompson, age 94 will be held Friday May 3, 2024 at 11:00 am in the HHH Cookeville Chapel with John Murphy officiating. Interment will follow in the Dodson Chapel Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Thursday 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the HHH Cookeville and Friday 9:00 AM until time of service.

Jimmy Thompson, Stanley Thompson, Randall Thompson, Jerry Norrod, Andrew Sosnowski, and Stacy Bullock will serve as pallbearers.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.