Karol Sue Thompson, age 76 of Elwood, passed away at her home surrounded by her family on Thursday, April 20, 2017 after an extended illness and well-lived life.  She was born February 9, 1941 in Shelburn, Indiana, the daughter of William F. and Inez (Courtney) Raines.  Karol cared for her family as a homemaker most of her life, and also formerly worked at Stokley's Canning Co. in Tipton.  She attended Terre Haute schools and later finished her education through Elwood schools.  Karol married Earl "Bud" Thompson on October 12, 1974, and they shared over 21 years of marriage together before his passing on February 4, 1996.  She was a member of the ladies V.F.W. auxiliary,  Moose Lodge, Eagles Lodge, and the American Legion.  Karol enjoyed crocheting and quilting, and was an avid and accomplished Euchre player.  She especially enjoyed playing in the Elwood Senior Citizens Euchre Club for many years.  She also enjoyed crossword puzzles and writing short stories in her spare time.  More than anything, Karol's family was the most important blessing of her life.

Karol's family includes 5 children, Bryan Bennett of Florida, William F. "Bill" Bennett of Elwood, Toni Sue Bennett of Elwood, Rae Anne (husband Tom) Holliday of Sheridan, and Carolyn Rice of Gas City; sister, Dianna (husband John) Ridge of Sheridan; 2 brothers, Jerry (wife Janice) Raines of Farmersburg, and Michael Allen (wife Mary) Raines of Elwood; son-in-law, Michael McPhearson of Elwood; daughter-in-law, Sandy Thompson of Frankton; 15 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Karol was preceded in death by her parents; 1st husband, Donald R. Bennett; 2 ^nd husband, Earl "Bud" Thompson; son, Jerry Thompson; daughter, Nancy McPhearson; infant daughter, Jerri Lynn Bennett; and grandson, Christopher Bell in 2016.

A funeral service celebrating Karol's life will be conducted at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Kim Melton of the Church of the New Life, officiating.  Burial will follow in the Elwood City Cemetery in Elwood.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 prior to the funeral service at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Morrisett Center Food Pantry through the funeral home.  Online expressions of condolence may be made at copherfeslermay.com.