Carol was born May 7, 1938, in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Fred and Catherine “Irene” Kraus Pershing. She married Lawrence “Larry” Edward Thompson on July 18, 1964, in Springfield, IL.
Carol graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in 1956. She was employed with Illinois Bell – Ameritech until her retirement after 27 years of service, finishing her career as a manager. Carol was a member of St. James Church, Quilters Club, Senior Luncheon Committee, and Telephone Pioneers. She enjoyed cooking, hosting family holiday dinners, and making candy at Christmas for family and friends for over 50 years. Carol also enjoyed playing cards, reading mysteries, watching cowboy movies, and playing Sudoku.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Fred Louis Pershing; and son-in-law, Robert Longcore.
Carol is survived by her husband, Larry Thompson of Springfield; daughters, Dawn (Todd) Beisiegel of Belleville, IL and Mary Ann Longcore of Spaulding, IL; grandchildren, Megan Marie (Clark) Wisely and Matthew Austin Beisiegel; and siblings, Rose Marie Huddleston of Springfield, IL, Mary Beth (James) Baugher of Rockwall, TX, David Lee (Linda) Pershing of North Lake, IL, and John Phillip Pershing of Sherman, TX.
Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 3:45 p.m.
Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at St. Joseph Church, 1345 N. 6th St., Springfield, Il with Rev. Manuel P. Cuizon, Ph.D., celebrant.
Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center following ceremonies.
Burial will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. John’s Breadline or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
