Kay L. Thompson

Kay “Grandma” Thompson, 73, of Rocky Mount, passed away, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Roger Thompson; father, Otha Wheeler; mother, Evelyn Wheeler; sister, Judy Saul; brothers-in-law, William Saul, and James Carter.

Kay retired after 21 years of service as a science teacher with Roanoke County Schools (13 years) and Roanoke City Schools (8 years). She continued to serve as a substitute and algebra readiness teacher with her William Byrd Middle School family for the past 8 years.

Surviving are her daughter, Kim Thompson and boyfriend JR Roberts; son, Gene Thompson and wife Nicki; grandchildren, Allie, Daphne, and Avery; brothers, Kent Wheeler (Darlene), Otha Lee Wheeler (Becky); sisters, Linda Divers (Bobby) and Della Carter; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to either the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Virginia, which was near and dear to her heart (www.bgcswva.org); or to the Sheila S. Strauss Hospice House, where they took such wonderful care of her during her final days (www.goodsam.care).

A celebration of Kay’s life will be held at 11 am Monday, April 28, 2025 at Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Road Chapel. The family will receive friends from 4-6 pm Sunday, April 27, 2025 at Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Chapel.