DeWitt County is mourning the loss of one of it's compassionate educators for nature and conservation.

Carol Thompson passed away this weekend after a battle with cancer and this week those who saw Thompson do what she loved are remembering her. Tom Jackson is the former Superintendent of Weldon Springs State Park. He calls Thompson an asset to the Park and the community and praised the dedication she had for nature and the kids of the community.

[audio:7211522309-72215thompson1.mp3] [/audio]

Jackson calls Weldon Springs a "crown jewel of DeWitt County" and says much of what is there now is because of the work of Thompson.

Clinton Elementary School Principal Mary Diener says Thompson impacted numerous students that she has taught. Diener says Thompson wanted everyone to appreciate the outdoors, nature and animals.

[audio:7211522314-72215thompson2.mp3] [/audio]

Diener says Thompson persevered through everything to continue her mission with children and education and spreading the love of the outdoors. Diener will give the eulogy at Thompson's funeral Thursday and says she has so much to say, getting it all out will be a challenge.

Thompson's funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, with the Rev. Leanne Noland officiating. Cremation rites will be accorded following the service. Private graveside service will be at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Clinton Tree Commission.