SAGINAW, Mich. — Mattie Thompson, one of the longest-serving members in the history of the Saginaw Public Schools Board of Education, has died at age 80.
Thompson passed away Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, at her home in Saginaw.
Her service on the school board began in late 2005, when she was appointed to fill the vacancy created by the death of her husband, Willie Thompson. She was sworn into office on Jan. 4, 2006, and later won her first full term in November 2007. Her current term was scheduled to run through 2026. The couple’s son, Jason, also was a school trustee.
During nearly two decades on the board, Thompson became a steady voice in district leadership, helping guide Saginaw Public Schools through academic planning efforts, financial restructuring and administrative transitions.
Visitation for Thompson will be held Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Paradise Funeral Chapel on South Washington Avenue in Saginaw. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11 a.m. at the same location, with Pastor Kareem Bowen officiating.
Her passing marks the loss of one of the district’s most committed and enduring public servants.
