Judith E. Thomas

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Judith (Judy) E. Thomas, age 63, of Syracuse, NY, who passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025, surrounded by family.

Judy was born on April 19, 1961, in Oneonta, NY, to H. Laverne and Mary D. Thomas. A graduate of Oneonta High School and Powelson Business Institute in Syracuse, NY, Judy worked in information technology at Syracuse University for many years, where she met her husband, Chris. Together, they enjoyed music, cooking, traveling, gardening, the outdoors, and their beloved dog, Marley. Judy loved the arts and possessed a beautiful singing voice and shared her passion for song with others. She performed on stage in musical theater productions, and in several choral groups including the May Memorial Choir. Judy had life-long interests in health and nutrition, and was a certified personal trainer.

To those who knew her, Judy was inspirational for her indomitable spirit, courage, and tenacity, which helped her overcome many health challenges throughout her life.  Because of a rare birth defect, Judy was under medical care at its detection very soon after her birth. She suffered two surgeries in infancy and many hospital stays and countless medical procedures before she was 6.  She was under continued medical care until adolescence when her body miraculously recovered, and she then assumed a normal life for many years.  Through it all she persevered with grit and determination to share a typical childhood with her siblings and parents.

Judy is survived by her devoted husband, Christopher Dranchek; her favorite and only daughter, Hannah Frawley; and her beloved grandchildren, Naasir, Jayanna, and Jace. She is also survived by her father, H. Laverne Thomas; her brother, Steven (Martha) Thomas; her sisters, Janice Thomas (David Ackerson) and Sandra Thomas; sister-in-law Lee Ann Nixon; niece Sara Thomas (Josh Regan); nephews Ed Thomas (Megan Hennessey), Chris Thomas, and Jesse Thomas (Brianna Keefe-Oates); along with great nieces and cousins. Judy was preceded in death by her mother, Mary D. Thomas, and her sister, Carol E. Thomas.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Planned Parenthood.

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