Rebecca “Becky” Jo Thompson, born May 3, 1983 to Lynette Thompson and Michael Barnhart, has passed at age 43 on May 19, 2026 from pneumonia at Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.
Becky is survived by three kids, Abegail (Gunner) Reed, Owen Babcock and Aurora Babcock (fiancé Ricky McPheter); granddaughter, Oakley McPheter; her parents, Lynette Thompson and James Ruble; her siblings, Sara (Steve) Williams, Jim (Stacey) Blizzard, Rachel Thompson (Rick Jones) and Elizabeth Kleine; along with many nieces and nephews.
Becky was an avid reader and giant nerd, obsessed with Harry Potter and The Sims 4. She loved dogs, her kids, and the color pink more than just about anything else. She started a small jewelry making business in 2024 and sold her pieces online and at markets.
Becky will be missed by all those who knew her. She was a loving woman and, in return, she was well-loved by those around her. She was kind and generous, willing to give the shirt off her back or her last dollar to someone in need, which her career choice reflected. In her time at Friendship Ark, Becky loved being able to help adults with disabilities and took pride in her job.
Becky requested to be cremated and shared with her children. There will be a celebration of life for her on Tuesday May 26th at 10 a.m. at Albia Road Baptist Church, 1601 Albia Rd., Ottumwa, IA. Her kids invite you to honor her by wearing pink to the service.
Memorials may be made to the family.
