Born November 3, 1917, Aurora Jane (Thompson) Dykes was born in Italy, Texas to Lennie Ola (Ward) and Urby Joe Thompson. She passed away on December 28, 2012 in Italy, Texas at the age of 95.

A life-long member of First Christian Church, Mrs. Dykes served as Board Chair, Treasurer, Elder, all offices of the Christian Women’s Fellowship, Sunday School teacher, and choir member. She served as president of the United Church Women of Italy and as chair of World Day of Prayer.

She was president of Community Service Club (a club that served meals to the Lion’s Club to make money for up-keep of the cemetery), as well as a volunteer in the PTA. A member of the Chamber of Commerce, she owned and managed the Variety Store for many years. Mrs. Dykes also worked as a lab technician, receptionist and bookkeeper, and assisted her husband, Dr. A. O. Dykes, with examinations, surgery, and birth deliveries.

Devoted to her husband and family, her home was always open for the celebration of special occasions, including parties for Italy high school graduates. An avid animal lover, she always had special pets. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ASPCA of Ellis County.

Mrs. Dykes is survived by a sister, Odessa Adams of Snellville, Georgia, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband as well as a brother, Urby Joe Thompson, Jr., and a sister Helen Walker.

The family will receive friends from 4PM to 6PM Sunday, December 30, 2012 at the Boze-Mitchell-McKibbin Chapel in Italy.

Funeral service will be 2PM Monday, December 31, 2012 at the Boze-Mitchell-McKibbin Chapel in Italy with Reverend Peggy A. Edge and Reverend Tommy Thompson officiating. Interment will follow at the Italy Cemetery.