Kennetta Cecelia Hairston Thompson, 70, departed this earthly life Friday, June 15, 2007, at Forsyth Medical Center. Mrs. Thompson was born March 25, 1937, in Winston-Salem, the daughter of the late Mildred Hairston. She was educated in the local school system, having attended Kimberly Park and graduating from Atkins High School, class of 1955. Mrs. Thompson received a bachelor' s degree in education from Winston-Salem Teacher' s College (WSSU) and was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She was an outstanding fifth grade teacher for the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System for 28 years until her retirement. Mrs. Thompson was a wonderful mentor and resource of knowledge and encouragement for her students and colleagues throughout her teaching career. She joined New Bethel Baptist Church at age six, where she was a Gold Star Member. At New Bethel, she served in many capacities, including Sunday School teacher, Baptist Training Union, Bereavement Committee, Flower Club, Effort Club, Journalistic Society, Senior Missionary, Willing Workers and Tuesday morning Bible Study. Her church involvement served as a testament to her love of her Savior, Jesus Christ. Mrs. Thompson was a loving mother and grandmother, leaving behind to carry on her legacy two children, Nicholas Thompson, III and Lennetta (Joe) Thompson Bartley; two beloved grandchildren, Chante Thompson and Jaleesa Bartley; a precious great grandson, Jolen Thompson; three sisters, Peggy (David) Conrad, Sadie (Lester) Hairston and Andrea Hairston of the Bronx, NY; a brother, Anthony Hairston (Barbara) who preceded her in death; and a number of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, June 19, at the New Bethel Baptist Church, with the Reverend Dr. Jerry Drayton officiating. Interment will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Tuesday at the church. At other times, they may be contacted at the home of her daughter at 2512 Treetop Lane. The family would like to thank the Piedmont Dialysis Center (Bay A) for their expert care and warm loving treatment given to Mrs. Thompson over the years.