For Garry and Marion Thompson, life has always been about faith, family, and building connections.
Married for an astounding 58 years — and affectionately nicknamed “Mr. and Mrs. T” — the Thompsons share a bond rooted in their devotion to each other, their faith, and their ever-growing family, which includes three married sons, 16 grandchildren (Marion proudly counts in-laws among her grandchildren), and 13 great-grandchildren.
Their undeniable chemistry still comes through after all these years, as they naturally finish each other's thoughts.
“We loved working together,” Marion said of their early days, with Garry chiming in, “Yes, absolutely.”
A life of faith and service
The couple’s journey began in the medical field, with Garry working as a medical technologist and Marion as a nurse. But in 1969, their path took a new turn. The Thompsons moved from Orlando to Clearwater, Florida, where Garry attended Bible college. After completing his studies, they embarked on a shared mission as a pastor and pastor’s wife, moving from Florida, to Indiana for seminary, then to Michigan, West Virginia, Ohio, Illinois, back to Michigan, and finally settling back in Ohio.
Their mobile lifestyle had them encountering people from every background and walk of life.
“Our whole married life ever since he went into ministry has been involved with immigrants and people from other countries,” Marion shared. “We’ve come to have a great appreciation for them … we learn a lot from people who aren’t like us.”
Their faith and love for people took them on travels to Africa, Honduras, and Guatemala, where they engaged in medical missions and immersed themselves in other cultures.
Finding community at 10 Wilmington Place
After decades of serving others, the Thompsons decided it was time to settle into a community that felt like home. Their connection to 10 Wilmington Place goes back years, as Garry’s late mother had lived in the Memory Care unit.
“When we decided that we needed to make a change, we kind of remembered here,” Marion said. “This place definitely cures that [loneliness]. You always have the opportunity to be with other people and get involved in their lives.”
For Marion, whose back surgery earlier this year brought challenges, finding a place with support was key.
The Thompsons enjoy being part of the 10 Wilmington Place community, attending Bible study and Sunday church services. Marion especially cherishes the dinner hour: “Every time we walk out our door, there’s somebody to talk to, somebody to get to know and find out about their life and just make friends. The dinner hour at night is—it’s usually over an hour. Sit around and chat afterwards. It’s wonderful.”
A beloved companion
No story about the Thompsons would be complete without mentioning their furry companion, Waddles. A seven-year-old Border Jack, Waddles joined their family when they adopted him from a shelter six years ago. Named for his endearing walk, Waddles has been their "very best companion" and a constant source of joy.
A legacy of faith and love
When asked about the advice they’d give others, Marion was quick to share her faith:
“The best life advice I can give is to open your life and your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ. He’s the rock and the reason you can get through anything and everything.”
Marion reflected on how their faith has sustained them through challenges: “To focus on Him and not on problems. Because He’s so faithful, and He’s a rock. He’s always a step ahead of us, so even when there are things we don’t understand, we can trust that He sees the bigger picture.”
For Garry and Marion, faith isn’t just a belief; it’s a way of life that continues to guide them as they embrace the next chapter at 10 Wilmington Place. Here, they build relationships, share their faith, and find joy in the blessings of a welcoming community.
