Jean “Tu” Thomas passed away on April 10, 2026, after a brief illness.

Cared for by a circle of family and friends; comforted by her spoiled dog Smoochie.

Born November 6, 1947, in Pittsfield, MA to Paul Thomas and Jean Stanley Thomas. Previously deceased by loving husband, Robert Welsh (1948-2014).

Jean’s spirit of curiosity was evident in her world travels but also could be felt in an afternoon walk through her garden. Her interest in each and every plant was matched by her study of the people around her. Jean accepted plants, animals and people for exactly who they are. A woman of varied interests, she held a BA in Biology from SUNY Albany and an AAS in Floriculture from SUNY Cobleskill.

Jean served as an active Master Gardener volunteer for Cornell Cooperative Extension for over twenty years. Her voice can be heard from beyond the grave on 199 episodes of Nature Calls: Conversations from the Hudson of Valley, her podcast through CCE of Columbia and Greene County.

Jean published three years of garden observation and wisdom through her local column in the Mountain Eagle Newspaper. In addition to her newspaper column, Jean was a mystery writer and is survived by her unfinished masterpiece. Her membership in both MENSA and DAR inspired her to receive a Certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University.

Jean played the bagpipes with the Columbia & District bag pipe group for a number of years, as well as the viola in various amateur orchestras and string quartets. She also played her fiddle for folk and traditional events. Of her musical talent she would say, “What I lack in talent I make up for in enthusiasm.” A sentiment many of us should aspire to.

She was previously deceased by sister Linda Gates.

She is survived by siblings Katherine Davis, Martin Thomas, Nancy Kiernan, Sara Saunders, Jamie Thomas, Tammy Thomas and John Thomas. As well as many half siblings, cousins; cherished nieces and nephews. She is survived by her husband’s children Robert B. Welsh, Bryan Welsh (Karen) and Heather Welsh; their families and her beloved grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in her gardens at her home in Freehold, NY.

Messages of condolences may be made to www.TraverMc.com. Funeral arrangements under the care of Robert Gaus of Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, Catskill.