Jessie R. Thompson, fondly known as Momma Jessie, Nana, and Aunt Jessie, 88, was born on September 7, 1935, in Spartanburg, SC, to the late Clarence and Ford Wofford Rowland. At an early age she was baptized at Fosters Chapel Baptist Church, the oldest African American Church in Spartanburg, SC. She attended Fosters Chapel School in Roebuck, SC, and graduated from Spartanburg County Training School in Fairforest, SC.

After graduating from high school, she was employed at W & W Cafeteria. She later married her high school sweetheart, Joseph Thompson, on August 17, 1954. Her early years of employment included, J. C. Bull Clinic as a nurse’s aide and dental assistant. She was also employed at Orthopedic Associates and Abbott Laboratories.

Jessie attended Rutledge College where she graduated with honors and received her degree as a Certified Nursing Assistant. After obtaining her degree, she was employed at Spartanburg Regional Hospital. Jessie retired from the Hospital and later became a caretaker for Mrs. Roger Milliken until her death. Then later she was employed by Mr. Milliken, as his personal medical assistant and caretaker. This was her last position until permanent retirement.

Jessie was a faithful member of New Day Baptist Church for many years and one of the oldest members. She sang in the J L H Choir, a member of the Missionary Society, and Pastor’s Aides. She also assisted with the monthly Communion services, baptismals and prepared meals for Vacation Bible School. It was a regular scene to see her practicing her gardening skills at the Church’s entrance and providing flowers for the altar. She was also instrumental in gaining funds to equip the church kitchen, which is named after Roger Milliken’s wife.

She enjoyed travelling to Aruba and Hawaii and going on cruises to the Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico. Jessie was a member of the Tamin Court #122 D.O.I. for many years. It was during the various meetings throughout the country where she met and made many friends. Her most precious times were spent in her flower and vegetable gardens. She also enjoyed posting inspirational and spiritual sayings on Facebook (Meta) and thoroughly loved listening to and singing “Black Church Gospel Music”.

Jessie was preceded in death by: her husband of 69 years, Joseph Thompson; and siblings, Katy Rowland, Genevieve Cothran, Clarence Rowland, Jr., James Rowland and Willie Rowland.

Left to cherish fond and loving memories: one daughter, Veronica Thompson (Young); son-in-law, Ernest Young of Hockessin, DE; her grandson, Ej Young and his partner, Timothy Jones of Charlotte, NC; siblings, Lydia Jenkins of Cleveland Heights, OH, Geraldine Jones and Rita Rowland of Spartanburg, SC, Sarah Anderson of Somerset, NJ; cherished brother-in-law, Willie Thompson; sisters-in-law, Alice Rowland, Mary Rowland, Josephine Means, Christine Wilkins, and Emma Finger, all of Spartanburg, SC; and a host of nieces, and nephews.

Daughters of Isis Rites will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 from 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at The John Stinson Woodward Memorial Chapel, 602 Howard St., Spartanburg, SC.

A Celebration of the Life of Jessie Rowland Thompson will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at New Day Baptist Church, 2090 S Church St. Ext., Spartanburg, SC. Burial will be in the Heritage Memorial Gardens, 3901 S. Church St. Ext., Roebuck, SC.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be to: Regional Hospice Home, P.O. Box 2624, Spartanburg, SC 29304.

J. W. Woodward
Funeral Home