Miss Kelsy Lauren Thompson 23, of Salem, died Sunday, June 3rd as the result of an overdose, following a many year struggle with addiction. Because Kelsy wanted to give back we share her story.
Born in Salem, she was the daughter of John P. Thompson and Arnette D. Stewart. She was raised and educated in Salem and was a graduate of Recovery High School in Beverly earning her diploma from both Salem and Recovery High School.
Kelsy had just completed her Associates Degree from North Shore Community College in Social Work and was looking forward to continuing her education. She had a desire and a need to help others especially those fighting against addiction like she was. She interned for the past year at Recovery High in Beverly as a Junior Counselor and found this work rewarding on so many levels. She could connect with the students because she was fighting the same battle.
Kelsy strove for a normal life free from addiction and found great pride in helping others. Even though her life came to an end much too soon, we hope that if another’s life can be saved because hers was lost then her memory will live on.
Kelsy loved nature, photography, soccer and camping. She was an active member of Salem Youth Soccer, Little League and Salem Youth Basketball. She loved the out of doors and camping in Vermont. She had a passion for music and loved her family. She will be missed and always remembered.
Kelsy is survived by her mother Arnette Stewart of Winthrop, her father John P. Thompson and his companion Marjorie Nelson of Salem, her brother Nathan Thompson of Salem, her maternal grandmother, Lois Stewart of NY, her dearest friend Sean Riley of Burlington and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
