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A RADIO host’s daughter who died at age 20 is being remembered for the huge impact she had on her community before her tragic death.
Janey Thompson, daughter of WBT radio show host Bo Thompson, died due to complications from a blood clot in Charlotte on Tuesday.
“The WBT and Radio One family are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Bo Thompson’s daughter, Janey,” WBT wrote in an announcement on Wednesday.
“There are no words to provide adequate comfort under these circumstances, but we are committed to supporting Bo and his family in any way possible during this difficult time.”
No other details have been released concerning Janey’s cause of death.
Janey was “known for her infectious smile and big heart,” and as “a light in this world” according to the radio station’s post.
Now, Janey’s elementary school PE teacher has shared similarly glowing memories of Janey, whose passing was “devastating.”
“In kindergarten, I was immediately impressed by her presence – some stars just shine brighter and she was the brightest I’ve ever seen,” Randy Clutts said in an exclusive interview with The U.S. Sun.
He taught Janey for six years at Cotswold IB Elementary School.
He said he was particularly moved by Janey’s kindness, which was an example to everyone around her.
“She was always so kind to other students and adults. My daughter was a couple of years younger than Janey and struggled with anxiety and Janey always made efforts to help her feel comfortable,” Clutts said.
“She was a Safety Patrol in 5th grade and was a great help to the teachers and students.”
Janey was also a brilliant athlete and competed regularly in several sports.
I want people to remember her kindness and humility but am also going to suggest to my school administration that we create a ‘Janey Thompson Award’ to present at our 5th grade graduation ceremony.
Randy Clutts
“She was a tremendous athlete. Played softball, soccer, basketball, and probably any other sport she tried. One of those kids who could play anything and be great at it,” Clutts said.
She had talent off the playing field too.
“I knew she excelled in other ‘special area’ classes (e.g., art, music) but was amazed at her talent show performances over the years where she sang, danced, and played instruments,” her former teacher said.
“She was supremely talented in those areas as well.”
Laney was also a member of the National Society of Physics Students and the sorority groups Sigma Pi Sigma and Delta Delta Delta.
HEARTBREAKING NEWS
Learning about Janey’s death came as a shock to many.
“[It was] devastating. [I] loved her like she was my own child,” Clutts said.
He hadn’t spoken to the family yet because I “want to give them time to process this loss,” he said.
Clutts hopes people remember Janey for the beautiful person she was.
He’s working to help create an award in her memory.
“I want people to remember her kindness and humility but am also going to suggest to my school administration that we create a ‘Janey Thompson Award’ to present at our 5th grade graduation ceremony,” he said.
“It would be for someone who embodies the all-around good student and good person that Janey was – the highest honor.”
