Lois Mae (Haley) Thompson, 81, of Whiting, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025. Born in Newark, she grew up in Kearny, NJ along with her beloved sister Martha. She moved to Lanoka Harbor in 1972 before settling for over 30 years in Forked River.

Lois pursued her passion for teaching and graduated from Newark State (Kean University) with a Bachelor's Degree in Education in 1966. She later returned to school and earned a Master's Degree in Education in 2002. Lois worked at various schools during her teaching career. She was well known as one of Lanoka Harbor Elementary School's fourth grade teachers. During her 40 years in the classroom she was beloved by her students whom she inspired and encouraged with her good humor and her dedication. She retired in 2009.

Retirement allowed Lois to build her dream home at the Eagle Rock Resort and also more time to travel. Lois and Charlie embarked on fourteen cruises which included visiting the Caribbean, Alaska, England, Ireland, Norway and Belgium. They also made numerous visits to Maine. Nubble Lighthouse in York, ME was Lois' favorite spot to visit. Lois also enjoyed being a member of the Country Walk bowling league, shopping, decorating and could often be found at home wearing a festive holiday apron. She also loved reminiscing about the early years of their marriage while Charlie was serving in the United States Army. Their army travel brought them to Baltimore, MD, Arlington, VA and Pasadena, CA. One of Lois' favorite stories to recount was living only one block in from the Rose Parade route in southern California.

Lois was a member of the New Jersey Education Association , the Lacey Township Education Association, the Ocean County Retired Educators Association and Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton RC Church.

Lois is predeceased by her parents, Michael and Wilhelmina, and her sister Martha Haley. She is survived by her loving husband of fifty-eight years, Charles Thompson; her two children, Charles Thompson Jr. (Melissa) and Jana Piersol (John); and her beloved grandchildren, James, Broden and Haley Marie.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Manchester Memorial Funeral Home, located at 28 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ. A mass will be offered at 10:45am at the All Saints Chapel of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton RC Church, located at 30 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ. Cremation will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association.