Former museum director Marjorie Thompson dies

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KRCU) - Cape Girardeau lost a leader in historic preservation on Monday.

Marjorie Thompson passed away Thursday morning at her home in Cape Girardeau. She was 86 years old.

Thompson worked tirelessly both as the director of the Cape River Heritage Museum as well as on its board and a volunteer. In addition, she was engaged a multitude of civic organizations.

She also restored and gave tours of her family’s home, known as the Longview House.

Friend and Museum Board member Bonnie Stepanoff says that Marge Thompson’s energy and passion was contagious. She also brought keen business sense.

"Sometimes people are interested in museums but they don’t really have a sense of how to pay the bills and bring in funds. Marge came from a business background she worked with her husband on their business. So she had a good sense of how to do that," Stepanoff said. "But she never let that take over. It was always fun. It was always about having fun and laughing and joking."

There will be a visitation service for Marge Thompson on Thursday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Chapel from 4:00 to 6:00. Her funeral will be Friday at Lorimer Cemetery.

Jacob McCleland, KRCU

Posted in: Bonnie Stepanoff,Cape River Heritage Museum,historic preservation,Marjorie Thompson