Obituary of Mary Duncan Thompson

Mary Duncan Thompson, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2024, at the age of 65. She was born Mary Hammond Duncan on December 12, 1958, to John Bruce Duncan and Leila Hammond Duncan. She lived a life filled with love, service, and dedication to her family, friends, church, and community. Mary was a devoted wife to Mark Thompson and a loving mother to their three children and their spouses, Andrew (Andy) and Kate Thompson, Sarah and Jonathan Riley, and Rebecca (Becky) Thompson. She is also survived by her three brothers, James (Jim) Duncan, Samuel (Sam) Duncan, and John Duncan, who all cherished her deeply. Mary found joy and strength in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. She shared her passion for life with those around her. She was active in the life of Noroton Presbyterian Church, where she served as an Elder and led numerous small groups throughout the years, touching many lives with her love, wisdom, humor, and compassion. Mary was a voracious reader and lover of music. You probably heard her sing a verse or two for you as she moved through her day. The "don't talk to strangers" rule didn't apply to Mary. She was likely to talk to you in the checkout line whether you were in front of her, behind her, or running the register. It did not matter whether you were 8 or 80; Mary wanted to be present with you and chat about your life at organized gatherings or spontaneously on the sidelines of the soccer fields. Mary loved a good spreadsheet in both her professional and private life. She was always happy to work behind the scenes organizing data, finances, and photos or formatting documents for family and friends. Mary served on the Board of Directors for WIKS-USA for many years, which was critical in establishing and developing the Nambale Magnet School in Western Kenya. A memorial service to celebrate Mary's life will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 10:30 AM at Noroton Presbyterian Church (2011 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820) with a reception to follow. The burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to WIKS-USA, Inc. (www.wiksusa.org) in Mary's honor. Mary's love, grace, strength, and kindness will forever remain in our hearts. Her family, friends, and community will remember and cherish her legacy of service and love. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.