Aug. 5, 2020 — Edith “Deedie” Tompkins joined her husband, Neil Tompkins, in heaven on July 22, 2020.  

Born in Elma, Wash., on March 10, 1930, Deedie lived to be 90 years old.  She moved to Florence, Ore., in 1952 with her husband and daughter.

She started her own business, Deedie’s Alterations, in 1953. She created some very unique things, including a new Rhododendron Queen’s robe, an outfit for a stuffed grizzly bear used in a political campaign, and custom fishing boat cushions.

Before there was a Florence Food Share, Deedie took her utility trailer to a local grocery store, picked up donated produce and offered it to people in need in the community.

Neil and Deedie also offered their travel trailer to the police department, which referred homeless people needing a place to spend the night. Deedie hosted Home Extension meetings and was a member of the Women’s Missionary Council, as well as the TOPS Club.

She was also a member of the choir at Siuslaw Valley Christian Center, now known as Crossroad Assembly of God.  Her family attended many meetings of the Siuslaw Pioneer Association. They also hosted Rotary exchange students.

Deedie enjoyed performing in school plays when in high school. As an adult, she was an avid swimmer and loved going to yard sales. People would give her their lists and she would happily hunt for those desired items.  

Deedie and Neil used to go camping and enjoyed Sunday afternoon drives, picnics and barbecues. She had a very dry sense of humor and her gifts were sometimes an unexpected surprise.

Deedie was preceded in death by her husband, Neil; and her parents, Harold Speer and Edith Dingman.  

She is survived by daughter, Sharee Luce; son Lorin Tompkins; God-daughter Valerie Whitney; grandchildren: Erin Luce, Brennan Luce, Levi Tompkins, Laurie Tompkins, Rosemary Whitney, Levi Whitney, Olivia Blesse; and great-grandchildren Evan Rousseau, Hadessa Whitney and Sariese Whitney.

Neil and Deedie were “Mom” and “Dad” to many throughout the years.

Deedie was cremated by Burns Riverside Chapel.  Close family will observe a private service at the cemetery. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, no public memorial service will take place at this time. 

However, a memorial Facebook group has been set up. To be added to the group, or to view the Memorial online, please contact a family member on Facebook or email erin [email protected].

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gideons International.