Obituary of Lawanda Mary Thompson

Lawanda (Stephen) Thompson, 97, of Fredericton, NB, passed away peacefully in her sleep early Sunday morning, August 3rd, 2025, surrounded by her loving children. Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Lawanda was the beloved daughter of successful businessman, Thomas Stephen, and his devoted wife, Feama (Corey) Stephen, and was the cherished sibling to Douglas, Leonard, Wally, Malcolm, and Dorothy, all of whom have since passed.

A woman of quiet strength and vibrant spirit, Lawanda's entrepreneurial journey began early. At just 17, she was managing the Paragon Restaurant after school, overseeing a team of eight with poise and confidence. She later joined her father in researching property deeds and transporting business clients around town, sharpening the skills that would serve her throughout her life.

Lawanda’s tenacity was unmatched. At the industrial goods manufacturer, T. McAvity & Sons Ltd, she worked on the factory floor pounding gaskets into shape, outperforming her male coworkers in speed and volume. Although offered a supervisory role, she graciously declined, guided by an unshakable entrepreneurial drive and an extraordinary work ethic. She soon met and married the love of her life, Tommy Thompson; affectionately known as “Mr. Baseball” to many in the Fredericton area. Together, they shared nearly 40 devoted years of marriage and raised five children who were the pride and joy of her life: Stephen (Diana), George (Cathy), Kathy (Mike Washburn), Tom (Ruth), and Malcolm (Alison).

Lawanda was the definition of grace, resilience, and unconditional love. She was the family matriarch; the glue that held generations together. A brilliant businesswoman and a nurturing mother, she was instrumental in shaping her children’s values and fueling their successes. Despite life’s challenges, she never once complained. Her tolerance for pain was legendary; despite health challenges, she was always up and out of bed, radiant with energy and love for those around her. Her presence was magnetic. She forged deep and special connections with each member of her family and her extended community. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and unity; a reflection of the angelic love she gave so freely.

She is remembered with profound love by her grandchildren, Stevie, Joe (Rebekah), Doug (Ellen), Jason (Tarun), Bruce (Amy), Mike (Zosia), Jessica (Emma), Thompson, Justine (Andrew Barone), MacKenzie (Alexandra), Elliot (Julia), Annalise (Cliff Earnshaw), Mikey (Lauren), and Brittany (Mitchell Donlevy); and by her great-grandchildren, Luke, Will, Rachel, Ava, Olivia, Logan, Walter, Abigail, Tatum, Turner, Nash, Myla Rae, Zuzanna, Izabella, and Mikko.

Lawanda’s legacy lives on in the lives she shaped and the example she set. Through her faith, strength, and boundless compassion, she inspired a lineage of love and accomplishment.

Visitation will be held at McAdam's Funeral Home (160 York St., Fredericton, NB) on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, August 7th, at 2:00 pm at the Holy Family Catholic Church (1500 Hanwell Road, Fredericton, NB), with Fr. Bill Brennan as Celebrant.  An interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Lawanda’s memory to a local charity of your choice.