Barbara E. Thomas

Barbara Ellen (Dunshee) Thomas, aged 94, passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Barbara was born on February 28, 1930 in Oneonta, NY, where she spent her formative years. Upon graduating from Oneonta High School in 1948 she married, had three children, and worked in various sales positions in Oneonta. After marrying her second husband, Donald Thomas, she moved to Norwich, NY in 1963, where she managed the Triangle Shoe Store and had her fourth child. Because of her great love of children, she became a home daycare provider for over 30 years. Many of the children she cared for continued to have a close relationship with Barbara throughout their lives. 

But more than anything, Barbara was a devoted mother. She loved spending time with her children, doing ceramics, enjoyed camping, visiting with, and caring for others. Her children and grandchildren knew she loved them and was always there for them. Barbara devoted her life to caring for her daughter, Joni, and was able to do so independently until she was 90 years old when Joni entered Springbrook.

Barbara was an extremely funny and resilient woman. She was able to overcome any obstacle with humor and grace. People loved being around her because of her positive attitude and easy going nature. 

Barbara is survived by her children, Mary (Bedford) Ruffino and husband Tom, Linda (Bedford) Spencer and husband Ed, and Joni Thomas, as well as David Gantt, who she always thought of as a son; grandchildren, Barbara Bedford, David Bedford, Amanda (Armstrong) Scimeca and husband Russell, and Matthew Armstrong and wife Jennifer; and great-grand daughters, Ellea and Malena. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, and stepsons, Donald Thomas Jr. and wife Judy, and Kenneth Thomas. 

Barbara was predeceased by her son, Philip Bedford of Norwich NY, husband Donald “Duck” Thomas and siblings, Reid Dunshee, Jane Vodapivic, Florence Rosa, and Vernice Rifenburg.

Barbara’s family would like to express gratitude for the staff of Hampshire House in Oneonta and A.O. Fox Nursing Home for the wonderful care they provided and the kindness and respect they showed her and her family. 

Her memory will be cherished with a smile by all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to the Wilson Funeral Home, 68 South Broad Street, Norwich, NY on Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Memorial contributions in Barbara’s honor may be made to your local SPCA.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.