Obituary of Janet Emily Thompson

Janet (“Jan”) Thompson, 72, of Reston, VA, passed away at her home on September 19, 2023.

Jan was born on March 5, 1951 in Arlington, Virginia to the late Dan and Charlotte Thompson.

Jan is survived by her siblings Dan Thompson, Jr. (Jane), Mary Steen (Gail^†), Trish Gilbert (Rick), and Jim Thompson (Cathy); and nieces and nephews Rebecca, Janette, Jennifer, Emilee, David, Ben, Alina, and Alex and many other beloved relatives and friends.

Jan grew up in Vienna, VA graduating from Oakton High School in 1969 where she made many lifelong friends.  She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English & Education from William & Mary College in 1973 and was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority.

Jan began working at the Pentagon shortly after graduating college.  She spent many years working for the United States Government and was promoted to a high-level Senior Executive Services (SES) position with the Department of Defense.  She retired in 2008 as the Director of Human Resources, WHS.  After her retirement from the government, Jan volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for neglected and abused children.

She loved the beach, shopping, crafts, reading, painting, baking, chocolate, and all things Christmas related.  Jan had a contagious laugh.  She was a long-time member of the local HOG Chapter of Harley Davidson riders and enjoyed many years as a rider with her biking friends.  Jan was a breast cancer and stroke survivor.  She was a friend to animals and especially enjoyed the cats and dogs who would visit the retirement facility where she made her home.  Jan enjoyed decorating for each holiday and made sure to have a candy dish outside the door of her home for all to enjoy.

She will be greatly missed by everyone that knew her.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, September 29 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Reston, VA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen® organization (https://www.komen.org/how-to-help/donate/memorial-giving/) or to the American Heart Association (https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give).