Janis P. Thompson

On Sept. 19, 1964, she married the love of her life, Thomas R. Thompson, who survives her, along with their children, Heidi (husband, Loy) Kreider of Roaring Spring and Cornell (wife, Jill) Thompson of Martinsburg. Janis was the proud “Nanny” of Abby (husband, Noah) Krehl, Adam (wife, Samantha) Kreider, Kara (fiance, Jake Shepherd) Thompson, Aaron (partner, Jaye Ratio) Kreider and Kaitlyn Thompson; and great-grandmother to Kit, Nora, Baker, Calvin and Lyndel.

She was preceded in death by her sister, D. Eileen McNally.

A 1961 graduate of Central High School’s first graduating class, Janis was the first student ever to walk across its stage, a fitting symbol of the trailblazing life she would lead. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing from St. Joseph’s College of Maine and later became a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner at the University of Pittsburgh in 1981, completing her degrees while raising her family, something rare for women of her time.

Janis built a respected career working at Nason Hospital, Presbyterian Hospital, KB England Physician Practice, Cardiology Associates of Altoona and ultimately the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center, where she cared for veterans with determination and heart. At the Altoona VA, she established a women’s care program, ensuring female veterans received the specialized support they deserved. It was just one of the many ways she quietly changed the world around her.

Fiercely hardworking, resilient, stubborn and fiery, Janis took up space in a man’s world long before it was easy or accessible to do so. She was a member of Roaring Spring First Church of the Brethren and spent more than 53 years with her beloved card club, turned lifelong friends. She loved gardening, cross stitching, sewing, quilting and spending time going to every event, show or sport her grandchildren participated in.

Her family will honor Janis for the rest of their lives in the little ways she taught them: by spending time outside, by shopping with confidence for whatever brings joy and by speaking their minds boldly and unapologetically — just like she always did.

Friends will be received from 10 until the 11 a.m. funeral service Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Bice Memorial Chapel at Homewood Living, Martinsburg, with the Rev. Jerry McCuller and the Rev. Dave Crumrine officiating.

Arrangements are by Fink & Stone Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., Martinsburg.

Memorial contributions may be made in Janis’ name to: Dragon Pride Foundation, 1100 E. Main St., Roaring Spring, PA 16673; or “Relief Fund” c/o D. Merl Tipton VFW Post 43, 115 S. Nicodemus St., Martinsburg, PA 16662.

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