In Memory

Virginia Ann Horton (Thompson) - Class Of 1943

Virginia Ann Horton (Thompson)

Virginia Horton Thompson

December 3, 1925 - August 7, 2022

Passed away peacefully at the age of 96. Known as 'Ginny' or 'Ann' to her many lifelong friends, she was born in Pasadena and passed away at Villa Gardens in Pasadena. The life she lived was a wonderful tale that mirrored the growth of Los Angeles. She was raised during the depression by her loving grandmother Jenny Salisbury and her devoted mother Ruth. Their perseverance and tenacity together gave her a strength and positive outlook that she has passed on to her children and grandchildren.

She leaves two children, Harlan Thompson and Susan Phillips, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was so proud of all her grandchildren and loved being involved in their lives. She enjoyed a happy 58-year marriage with Harlan Thompson '41, whom she met when they both attended South Pasadena High School. She has missed him deeply these last 21 years and has finally joined him in heaven.

She and Harlan were married at St James Episcopal Church in South Pasadena when Harlan returned from serving his country in World War II as part of the infantry in Europe. They were both very much representative of the Greatest Generation. They often said that every day after that was a gift.

Ann was active at St Matthews Episcopal Church in Pacific Palisades, where she was a 25-year member of the Altar Guild. During their 45 years living and raising their children in the Palisades, she was active in many Los Angeles civic organizations, including The Los Angeles Junior Philharmonic. She was a proud member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority, which she joined while attending UC Berkeley.

Mom loved to travel and experience the world and has passed that love on to her children and grandchildren. She especially enjoyed spending summers at the family cabin in Waterton Lakes, Alberta. She shared its magnificent beauty with many US friends who would come to visit. Our family treasures the time we had with her and will always miss her.

Los Angeles Times, September 4, 2022