Phyllis Thompson, 81, passed away peacefully on the morning of December 4, 2024, at her home in Deer Lodge, Montana.
Born Phyllis Hodel on September 20, 1943, in Sacramento, California, she was the third child and first daughter of William and Marion Hodel. Phyllis grew up on an egg ranch on 24th Street in Rio Linda, where she spent her childhood working on the farm and taking part in 4-H and the Catholic Youth Organization. Her leadership skills blossomed early as she became actively involved in these community organizations, a trait she carried throughout her life.
After graduating from Highlands High School in 1961, Phyllis married Ken Larkins in 1962, and they had two sons, Greg and Chris. In 1968, following her father’s diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, Phyllis and Ken took over the family ranch, where they continued to provide fresh eggs to the Sacramento area for many years. The ranch was a vital part of the Rio Linda community, and Phyllis and Ken became well-known figures in the area.
In addition to her work on the ranch, Phyllis spent much of her career with Trans Cal Insurance in Sacramento, retiring as Vice President of Operations. In 1982, Phyllis married David Thompson, who had two children, Beth and Jon. Phyllis embraced them as her own, blending their families with love and care.
In 2017, Phyllis and Dave relocated to Deer Lodge, Montana, to be closer to their growing family. There, she became an active member of the community, volunteering with local organizations such as the Women’s Club, New To You, and Deer Lodge Assembly. She also enjoyed attending social gatherings, including Bunco and Bingo, where she made many new friends.
Phyllis is survived by her husband, David Thompson, children Greg (Karen) Larkins, Christian (Mary) Larkins, Beth Luera, and Jon Thompson; grandchildren Ricky, Jennifer, John, Jeff, Maryann, Christian Jr., Juan David, and Alexa; nine great-grandchildren; and her sister, Carol (Jerry) Helt.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Marion Hodel, and siblings Charles and Kenneth Hodel.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in memory of Phyllis be sent to the Deer Lodge Women’s Club, 802 Missouri Ave, Deer Lodge, MT 59722.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Deer Lodge Assembly in Deer Lodge, Montana, with a reception to follow in the church’s social hall. A memorial service in California will be announced once arrangements are finalized.
Phyllis will be remembered for her deep love for her family, her generosity, and the vibrant spirit she shared with everyone she met, from her roots in Rio Linda to her new home in Deer Lodge.
(On a personal note, Phyllis was an ardent supporter of Rio Linda Online, and I spoke with her often. She was intelligent and wise, and appreciated her life in Rio Linda, and the people of our community. She will be sorely missed.)
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