Thomas Funeral Chapels, Inc.

06/14/2026

On August 19,1960, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 5 into space. Aboard on the spacecraft were two female dogs, Belka (meaning “Whitey”)and Strelka (meaning “Little Arrow”). Belka and Strelka were stray dogs that a Soviet scientist found roaming the streets of Moscow. They believed that stray dogs would endure the harshness of space better than housetrained dogs. Both dogs were launched into space and orbited the Earth more than a dozen times before returning to Earth the next day. They lived a happy life in Moscow. Strelka later had a puppy named Pushinka, who was given to President John F. Kennedy. Both Belka and Strelka were preserved after their death at the Museum of Cosmonautics in Moscow.

06/13/2026

Gereld Johnson

It is with solemn respect that we announce the passing of Gereld Johnson, who left us on January 3, 2026. Gereld's departure marks the end of a chapter that touched many lives with quiet dignity. A burial service to honor Gereld's memory is scheduled to take place on June 18, 2026. The ceremony will begin at 10:00 a.m., at Riverside Cemetery located at 2650 Lake Avenue, Rochester, NY 14612, United States. This final gathering will provide family, friends, and community...

View Gereld Johnson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/11/2026

Think before you scatter all ashes. You may want to scatter more than once, or keep some in the urn for other relatives, etc.

06/09/2026

Marion L. Dickerman

Marion L. Dickerman, born on November 11, 1950, passed away on June 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of devotion to her family, her community, and friends. She was a beloved supervisor for Rochester Airport Parking, a position she held with dedication and pride for 18 years, where she was known for her diligence, care, and leadership. Marion pursued her education with the goal of becoming a teacher and earned an associate degree that reflected her commitment to guiding and...

View Marion L. Dickerman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/07/2026

A grief poem by Rudyard Kipling we thought may be helpful today --

For a season there must be pain -
For a little, little space
I shall lose the sight of her face,
Take back the old life again
While She is at rest in the place.
For a season this pain must endure,
For a little, little while
I shall sigh more often than smile
Till Time shall work me a cure,
And the pitiful days beguile.
For that season we must be apart,
For a little length of years,
Till my life's last hour nears,
And, above the beat of my heart,
I hear Her voice in my ears.
But I shall not understand -
Being set on some later love,
Shall not know her for whom I strove,
Till she reach me forth her hand,
Saying, "Who but I have the right?"
And out of a troubled night
Shall draw me safe to the land.

06/05/2026

“Witness of cremation” is where the cremation is viewed by family or close friends. They may take a moment to say final goodbyes before the process begins and can stay together during the process, which takes 3 hours approximately.

06/03/2026

A little spring cleanup at the front of our building!

A big thank you to Ecoblast Powerwashing for helping restore the beauty of our brick exterior. After a long winter, they thoroughly removed months of salt, dirt, and grime, leaving the building looking fresh and well cared for.

Damien and his team did an outstanding job—professional, efficient, and attentive to every detail. We are grateful to support another great local business and highly recommend their services.

📞 Ecoblast Powerwashing: 585-732-7066
www.Ecobast-Powerwashing.com

There's nothing like a clean, welcoming appearance as we continue serving families in our community.

06/02/2026

05/31/2026

Patrick S. Donohue

Patrick S. Donohue Sr. of Sheldon NY passed away unexpectedly on May 24, 2026 at the age of 52. He was born on November 2, 1973 to the late Robert and the late Theresa (Mulligan) Donohue. Patrick is survived by his wife Leanne (Wellington) Donohue and his children: Ryley Kate, Patrick Shawn Jr., Blake Andrew, and Megan Elizabeth Donohue. He is also survived by his siblings: Robert (Teresa) Donohue, Kelley (Glenn) Hacker, and Timothy (Shannon) Donohue. Patrick also leaves behind...

View Patrick S. Donohue's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/27/2026

Affordable Cremation Options in Rochester, NY

Choosing cremation does not mean sacrificing dignity, care, or meaningful remembrance. At Thomas Funeral Chapels, we believe every family deserves compassionate service and affordable options that fit their needs and budget.

We offer a variety of cremation choices—from simple direct cremation services to memorial gatherings and personalized celebrations of life. Our caring staff will guide you through every option with transparency, respect, and no unnecessary pressure.

Whether you are planning ahead or facing an immediate need, we are here to help families throughout Rochester, NY make informed and comfortable decisions.

✔ Affordable Cremation Services
✔ Traditional & Memorial Options
✔ Pre-Planning Available
✔ Compassionate Local Care

📍 Serving Rochester, NY and surrounding communities
📞 Available 24/7 – 585-663-3837