Mina Thompson, a lifelong pioneer, adventurer, and cherished matriarch, passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 102. She was born on January 23, 1922, in Fox, Arkansas, to Lewis and Jean Coffin-Shanks. At the age of 2, she and her family relocated to Flagstaff, Arizona, where they made their home and planted their own flag in the earth, marking the beginning of a remarkable life full of resilience and independence.

Mina's childhood years were shaped by the pioneering spirit of her family, especially her father, Lewis, who worked for the Forest Service at Dead Man Flats and Williams Mountain. Some of Mina's fondest memories were formed during these summers, a time that reflected her adventurous heart and love of the outdoors.

At 18, Mina moved to Seattle, Washington, where she attended college, danced, modeled, and enjoyed an active life that included snow skiing and golfing. During World War II, she worked at Boeing Aircraft, contributing to the war effort by procuring parts for military aircraft. It was here that Mina's strong work ethic and independence blossomed; she loved earning her own money and taking pride in her career.

In Seattle, Mina met Richard J. Thompson, and in 1951, they returned to Flagstaff to raise their three children. Together, they founded "The Letter Shop," a local print business. Mina's deep involvement in her community extended beyond her family and business ventures. She was a dedicated member of both the Order of the Eastern Star (Grand Canyon Chapter) and Soroptimist International of Flagstaff.

After her divorce in 1974, Mina pursued a rewarding career at Northern Arizona University, working for the Dean of Continuing Education. She earned her bachelor's degree at the age of 62, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth. After retiring from NAU, she went on to work at Lowell Observatory, furthering her passion for knowledge.

In 1985, Mina embarked on one of her greatest adventures—spending her winters in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico, a remote fishing village with only one phone and no mail service to the U.S. There, she immersed herself in the local culture, continuing her love of square dancing, taking up belly dancing, painting, and even starting a community library. Her time in San Carlos became a cherished tradition, and she continued this lifestyle until well into her late 90s.

Mina's life was defined by her courage, creativity, and a fierce belief in women's rights. She instilled in her daughters, granddaughters, and great-granddaughters the values of independence and self-sufficiency, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams and believe that anything was possible.

Mina is survived by her daughters, Sharron Thompson and Nancy Newberry-Lippman (Glenn), her grandsons: Richard Murphy, Karl (Di An) Obergh, Jacob (Eisley) Dynomite, Michael Brenden Newberry, Ian Thompson, and Sean Thompson, and her great-grandchildren: Matthew Murphy, Kaya Newberry, Danielle Obergh, James Obergh, Sage Murphy, Leo Thompson and Bam Bam Dynomite. She is also survived by her great-great-grandson, Brenden Owen Orr.

Mina was preceded in death by her mother, Jean Shanks; her father, Lewis Shanks; her brother, Don Shanks; her sister, Avis Bennett; her son, James Louis Thompson; and her grandson, Chad Henscheid.

A memorial service will be held on November 15, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Lozano Funeral Home, 2545 N. 4th Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Grand Canyon Chapter #4, Order of the Eastern Star, a cause that was close to Mina's heart. Their address is PO Box 1657, Flagstaff AZ 86001.

Mina Thompson lived a life full of adventure, love, and inspiration. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and will forever be remembered for her trailblazing spirit and her unwavering belief in the power of independence