Bernice L. Thompson, 95, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully Friday afternoon at her home.

She was born Sept. 16, 1921, to Ben and Dorothea (Hudson) Miller in Jackson, Minnesota. Bernice graduated from Albert Lea High School. Playing first chair clarinet helped Bernice become the concert master of the Albert Lea High School band. Her love of music became part of her life. On Oct. 11, 1940, Bernice was united in marriage to Alexander Thompson. To this union one son, Daryl, was born. Alex passed away in 1966. Bernice was a rural carrier for the Austin Daily Herald for 24 years and worked for the Downtown Motel in the maintenance department for 18 years, too. Her love of music led her to become an organist, a pianist and a band director at the Church of Christ in Austin. Every Saturday night, Bernice held a music jam session for her friends and family at her home where they popped popcorn and enjoyed Coca-Cola. She was also the organist at the Austin Baptist Chapel for many years. She loved spending time with her family and friends and working on puzzles. Bernice will be missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her loving son, Daryl (Michele) Thompson of Peterson, Minnesota; six grandchildren, J. Rodney (Patricia) Thompson of Rushford, Minnesota, Michael (Bettina) Thompson of Rochester, Minnesota, Eric (Shannon) Thompson of Castaic, California, Shauma (Bradley) Meyer of Rushford, Jeremy Olson of Rushford, and Tanner Olson of Rushford; 15 grandchildren; two sisters, Twyla Adams of Phoenix, Arizona, and Cynthia Zech of Austin; one sister-in-law, Alice Miller of Denver, Colorado; and a host of relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brother, Curtis Miller.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 13, 2017, at Church of Christ in Austin with the Rev. Doctor Stephen DeFor officiating.  Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be held one hour before the service at the church. Memorials preferred to donor’s choice. Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.