Emma “Peggy” Thompson

Emma Lorell (Gordon) Thompson peacefully journeyed into heaven on Wednesday, December 17 , 2025. She was 95 years old.

Emma, known better by her nickname, "Peggy" was born on August 28, 1930, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was the beloved daughter and only child of the late Frances Henrietta (Jones) Gordon and Walter Avery Gordon.

Emma was serving as an American Red Cross Volunteer at the Veterans Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1944 when she met her future husband, Edward Lewis Thompson (1924-2004). He was an injured and decorated soldier who served in the US Army. They were married in 1948 and moved first to his native home in Closter, New Jersey, then to Teaneck, New Jersey, and eventually made Wayne, New Jersey their home. They shared a loving and spiritual family life with their two children: Chery! Ann (1951-2008) and Edward A(1954-2016).

Emma was a strong and independent woman with a sharp and wonderful sense of humor and a contagious laugh. She found joy in her various Arts and Crafts, watching her favorite sports teams on television, and -most of all-staying connected with others. She was both a colleague and mentor to many other employees and students throughout her many years at William Paterson University. Her photo was used and featured in the University's New Student recruitment ads during its "Making a Difference" campaign, showcasing one of its employees on campus who was making a difference.

She certainly made a difference to everyone in her life, including co-workers, colleagues, students (and the children of students), and those she knew and loved as friends.

Miss Emma/Peggy was an endearing wife and mother. Her children and family were her heart, her joy, her everything. Both children were exceptional artists in their respective fields of Music and Art. Their parents have created endowed scholarships in their names at William Paterson University, their Alma Mater.

Her favorite book: The Holy Bible

Her favorite song: Over the Rainbow (James Taylor)

Her favorite poem: God Grant Me the Serenity (Rheinhold Niebuhr)

Emma's spirit, kindness, generosity and love wilt live in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be remembered always for her strength, humor, advice (whether requested or not), and the deep love and respect for others she shared so freely.