Tessie Marie Thompson, lovingly known by Sumunatii, passed away on June 5, 2026, in Yakima, Washington, at the age of 66. Born on October 25, 1959, in Goldendale, Washington, Tessie’s life was a vivid tapestry of dedication, love, and connection to her heritage and family.

Tessie's roots ran deep, nurtured through her upbringing in Goldendale and enriched by her education at Toppenish High School, Chemawa Indian School, and Haskell Indian Nations University. She forged a meaningful career path, contributing her talents and hard work at Yakama Nation AAOA, Commodity Foods, Legends Casino, and Del Monte Foods. But beyond her professional accomplishments, Tessie was a person whose spirit was defined by her passion and affection for those she held dear.

An avid fisherman and horse rider, Tessie found joy in the outdoors and the traditions of her people. She was also a dedicated food gatherer, a skill that spoke not only to survival but to a profound respect for the land. Her hobbies reflected her creative soul jewelry making and sewing were among her cherished pastimes. She was a familiar and cherished presence at powwows, where she took immense pride in watching her grandchildren dance, her heart swelling with support and love.

Tessie’s family was the center of her universe. She was a cornerstone of strength and care, especially for her twelve beloved grandchildren Marisa, Kanim, Adonis, Dustin, Sam, Imani, Derrick Jr., Isabella, Khelani, Braidee, Isaiah, and Deeana each one feeling the warmth of her unwavering encouragement. Her daughters, Dailene, Lillian (and her husband Clifford), and Audrey (and her husband Will), along with her brother Tim (and wife Leeda) and sister Trina (and husband Joe), stood as living testaments to her enduring legacy. She was cherished by her niece Tamisa, nephew Derrick Sr. (and wife Lena), and numerous other nieces and nephews.

Tessie’s life was also touched by loss. She was preceded in death by her mother Elise Billy Dick and father William Thompson, as well as her stepfather Moses Dick Sr. The grief of losing her daughter Leanae Lewis, brothers Richard Steve Thompson and Fred Ike Sr., and several nieces and nephews Diana Thompson, Nena Smith, Laurisa Canapo, Serene Canapo, Moses Canapo, Tim Thompson Jr., and Tom Cody Ike remained a somber, silent thread running through the fabric of her life, yet she carried their memory with grace.

Her community will gather in remembrance of Tessie on June 8, 2026, beginning with a dressing service at 10:00am held at Valley Hills Funeral Home in Zillah, Washington. Later that evening, those who loved her will convene at the Rock Creek Longhouse in Goldendale, honoring her spirit in the place where her journey began.

Tessie Marie Thompson’s life was a testament to strength, gentle spirit, and an unwavering devotion to family, culture, and tradition. Her legacy endures in the hearts of those who knew her, in the dances of her grandchildren, and in the quiet moments spent by the water or the saddle. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and eternally loved.