Emma "Sophia" Thompson, age 97, arrived in the arms of the Lord on Sunday, January 19, 2020.  She was a longtime resident of Grayson Nursing and Rehab in Independence.

She was preceded in death by her parents Chap Stamper & Ida Billings Stamper;  Her husband Fred L. Thompson and two infant daughters; Great-nephew Bobby Jansen, niece Lorrie B. Andrews.

She is survived by her sister-in-law Ruby Thompson Anders of Independence; niece Debbie Anders McCleary & husband Sam of Galax; nephews Tony Bolt of Independence, Terry Thompson & wife Brenda of Independence.

Sophia was a farmer's wife who spent many years helping on the dairy farm and later with beef cattle.  She will be remembered as co-managing Ben Franklin 5 & 10 store in Independence.  She also enjoyed selling Avon & was a very successful seller in the Grayson County area.  She loved gardening, her cats, and playing bingo with her nursing home family.  Most of all she loved the Lord.

Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 3:00 at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, Virginia by Rev. Derek Cowan.  Burial will follow in the Salem Cemetery in Independence, Virginia.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral at the funeral home.

A very special thanks to all the staff at Grayson Nursing Home for the care and love that you showed Sophia.  You are appreciated.