Ella Jo (Thompson) Williams, 76, of Lafayette, left this earth for her heavenly home on Monday, January 25, 2021 at Bickford Senior Living of Lafayette.

She was born November 14, 1944 in Gary to the late Milton and Goldie (Thomas) Thompson. She was a 1963 graduate of Horace Mann High School and continued her education at Purdue University where she earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Home Economics. She also received her pilot’s license while a student at Purdue. Prior to working as a kitchen and bath designer, she also taught Home Economics in Valparaiso, worked for Purdue University, as well as for a local utility company.

Ella Jo was a devout Christian who was a member of River City Church in Lafayette.  She was involved with many programs at the church.  She was a dog breeder and groomer who enjoyed raising her pet schnauzers, Mitzie and Pitts, and her black lab, Midnight.  She was an avid photographer who liked to travel and documented her many trips with photographs.  Her travels took her across the continental US as well as Alaska and Hawaii.  She also travelled to Europe.  Ella Jo was a skilled card player and frequently had top scores in double-deck Euchre tournaments at family reunions.  She enjoyed sailing with her brother and family on Lake Michigan.  She was a member of a “cook together” group and was a great cook.  Above all, Ella Jo loved her family and friends and cherished every second spent with them.

Surviving are Sister-in-law, Judith Thompson; niece, Rebecca (Thomas) Webster of Orland Park, IL; nephew, Arthur R. Thompson, Jr. (Sarah) of Evanston, IL; and five great nieces and nephews.

Ella Jo was preceded in death by her father, Milton Thompson; her mother, Goldie Thompson; and brother, Arthur R. Thompson, Sr.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at River City Church, 108 Beck Lane, Lafayette with Pastor Robby Bradford officiating.

A private family graveside service and inurnment will held at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville.

Memorial contributions in Ella Jo’s name may be given to River City Church or to the Alzheimer’s Association.