Melissa A. Thomas, 62, Remembered as a Devoted Homemaker and Grandmother

Melissa A. Thomas, 62, of Black River, NY, died January 12, 2026 at University Hospital in Syracuse. Born in 1963 in Watertown, she was a homemaker who enjoyed baking and cherished time with her six grandchildren. She is survived by her three children, Jesse Woodruff; Joshua and Chenoa Woodruff; and Forest “Billy” Thomas III; six grandchildren; and several siblings. Her husband Forest W. Thomas Jr. preceded her in 2025, and her son Jacob G. Thomas died in 2019. A Celebration of Life was held January 18 at the Black River American Legion, with burial in Black River Cemetery planned for spring. Arrangements were by Bruce Funeral Home.