Celesta Lunsford

Celesta Mae Lunsford, known as "Mae", a cherished mother, devoted community member, and a beacon of strength, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, at the age of 79. She was born on August 27, 1946 in a small country home in Hillsboro Ohio. Mae dedicated her life to raising her four beloved children: Amy Louise Patton, Charles William Lunsford, Jr., Cindy Jean Lunsford, and Tammy Marie (Blaine) Bradds. Mae also leaves behind nieces, Jeannette Anne (Brian) Puckett and Nancy Fender; nephew, James Shaper Jr.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Louise (Aldridge) Johnson; ex-husband and best friend, Charles "Bill" Lunsford Sr; sisters: Alma Lee Shaper, Ruth Anne McNeil and Doris Jean Johnson; son-in-law, William Jeffery Patton; grandson, Warren Cody Patton; great granddaughter, Alayah Grace Wright; and high school best friend, MaryAnn Gorman.

In 1975 she became a head start school bus driver to support her family. Mae went on to receive her degree in early childhood education enabling her to become the head teacher at Highland County Daycare Center. She dedicated 11 years to teaching and caring for preschool children. In 1986 she began a career helping persons with disabilities. During her 28 yrs of service she worked as direct care, home manager, clinical supervisor, and operations supervisor. Mae traveled to Tennessee to open group homes to enrich the lives of persons who had been institutionalized. She has made a huge impact on the quality of life for everyone she knew.

In recognition of her community contributions, Mae proudly participated and won the Betty Crocker State Contest in high school, showcasing her passion and commitment to homemaking, sewing, and baking. Mae role modeled for her children by becoming their girl scout leader for many years. She was a member of the Hillsboro Eagles Club up until she fell ill. Mae also worked a second job as a census worker in highland county. Throughout her life, she embodied what it meant to be a strong woman, facing challenges with grace and resilience while ensuring that her family was always her top priority.
Besides her loving children, Mae is survived by her 18 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren, special friends: Cindy Eleyet and Sandy Rowe, several great nieces, nephews, and a host of friends, who will carry forward her legacy of love and support. She will be deeply missed by her family and the many lives she touched.

Funeral Services will be 3:00 PM, Saturday September 13, 2025 at the Thompson Funeral Home.

Friends may call from 1:00PM until time of services on Saturday at the Thompson Funeral Home.

Graveside service will be held at a later date.

Mae Lunsford will be remembered not only for her contributions to her community but also for the love that she so generously shared with those around her. Her legacy of compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

To sign Celesta's online guest book, please visit www.thompsonfuneralhomes.com or to leave a like, share or comment, visit the Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Care Facebook Page.