Joy E. Thomas

Rochester, NH- Joy E. Thomas, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, February 5th, two weeks after her 85th birthday. She was predeceased by her husband, Maynard “Gene” Thomas, of over 65 years.

Born on January 26, 1941, in Athens, Ohio, Joy was the daughter of the late Solomon and Edna (Russell) Goff and younger sister of Janet (Goff) Jenkins. She grew up in the small town of New Marshfield, Ohio, graduated from Waterloo High School and married her high school sweetheart, Gene.

Joy and Gene moved to Lee, Massachusetts early in their marriage, eventually moving to Rochester, New Hampshire, with their three children, Vicki, Eric and Doug. Joy was very outgoing, sociable and had no problem making friends wherever she lived. Joy and Gene maintained close relationships with many people from Lee while making new friends in Rochester.

Joy was an avid golfer, member of the Rochester Country Club and participated in almost every state women’s tournament for decades, making lifelong friendships throughout the state. Joy also enjoyed flower gardening and watching her sons play hockey and baseball, often embarrassing them with her cheering from the stands.

Joy and Gene found great happiness spending their golden years at their home on Lovell Lake in Sanbornville, NH, where they created lasting memories with family and friends. Joy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Vicki Ridlon; son Eric Thomas and his wife, Marcia; and son Doug Thomas and his wife, Shannan. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband, Gene; parents, Edna and Solomon; and sister, Janet.

Joy (aka Grammy Joy) will be greatly missed by her family. However, she leaves an eternal legacy of love, joy and hope that will remain for generations. There will be no public services at this time. There will be a private remembrance celebration for family and close friends; date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.