Murphys, CA…Raymonda (Raye) Lee Thompson, born July 6, 1942 in Santa Monica, California, passed away in her home in Murphys, California on May 5, 2016; she was 73 years old. Heaven is now her home. Raye graduated from San Lorenzo High School in 1960 and met her husband, Larry, while attending San Jose State University. Raye and Larry would have been married 53 years this October.

After putting up with Larry’s quest to find himself in San Jose, Florida, San Diego and Utah, Raye and Larry moved to Calaveras County with their two children, Todd and Scott, in 1974. Raye and Larry opened Thompson’s Mercantile in downtown Angels Camp that year. Since that time Raye worked for Security Pacific Bank, U.S. Bank, Tribble & Ayala, O.A.R.S. and Angels Glad Tidings Christian Bookstore. Raye and Larry retired together in 2008 and traveled extensively enjoying the Lord’s creation.

Raye was an extremely active and devout Christian. She attended Big Trees Church in Arnold and enjoyed the tremendous family of friends she had there. She attended weekly Bible and prayer gatherings; one particular gathering of prayer sisters began 29 years ago. She had the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.

Raye firmly believed that one should trust in the Lord with all their heart and not lean on their own understanding. She believed if we always acknowledge him, he would direct our paths.

Raye had a velvet voice. She was a kind and sweet wife, mother and grandmother. She was a blessing to all who knew her. She was strong and independent, yet completely humble, selfless, loving, caring and giving. She was an inspiration to her many friends and family and is survived by her husband, two sons, daughter-in-law, Elizabeth (Scott) and five grandchildren; Cort (and fiancée Lindsey), Emily (and boyfriend Chris), Dakotah (and wife Ashlee), Katelyn (and husband Jeff) and Conner.

Raye’s family is very grateful for and sends their love and thank you to the numerous friends and family who have been in constant contact throughout her illness and who have been praying that the Lord take her home gently. The family also thanks the wonderful group at Hospice of the Sierra for their caring support.

In lieu of flowers, Raye’s family has requested that any donations be made to The Christian Family Learning Center (CFLC). P.O. Box 880, Angels Camp, California 95222