Jennifer Janelle Wood Thomas was born March 27th, 1968 to Donald and Eunice Wood. Her father, Donald, was killed in action in Vietnam, August of that same year. Shortly thereafter, Eunice, Jennifer (Jenny), and her brother, Fred relocated to Woodbine, IA. In 1983, as Jenny was about to enter high school, her mother Eunice died of Leukemia. The DeForest family, and later the Moores family generously welcomed Jenny into their homes. After graduating from Woodbine Community High School, Jenny attended Iowa Western Community College, she then transferred to Iowa State University where she graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Consumer Science. Jenny moved from Ames, IA to Denver, CO after graduation. There she met her husband, Cleve Thomas. They were married in May of 1993. 18 months later they welcomed their twin children into the world, Linzey and Landon.
Jenny and Cleve dedicated their lives to helping others. With a heart the size of Texas, Jenny was mother and counselor to numerous foster children. Many of these children were legally adopted by the couple - John, Allen, Jeff, Amanda, and Scott. John also blessed them with a granddaughter, Braylee.
To say Jenny was "fun loving" might be an understatement. She lived life passionately. Some of her favorite things were Christmas, leopard print, cats, dancing, anything that involved glitter, and her family. After a long battle with health issues, Jenny passed away at her home July 14th, 2017. Jenny was proceeded in death by her parents, her sister Christina, and her son John. She is survived by her Husband Cleve, her children Linzey, Landon, Allen, Jeff, Amanda, and Scott, her step children Cleve Jr., Jason, and Kristin, her brother Fred and sister in law, Lisa, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends... She will be greatly missed by all.
A gathering of friends and family will be 4:00-6:00 p.m. Thursday, July 20th at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way in Ames. A memorial service will be July 21st at 1:30 p.m. at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care 414 Lincoln Way Ames, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to: the family.
After reading about the vibrant life she led and her love for children I just wanted to share this Spripture. With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: look! The tent of God is with mankind and he will reside with them and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them. 4. And he will wipe out every test from their eyeshadow and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore the former things have passed away.
Rev: 3,4: with that I heard a loud voice from the throne say:look ! The tent of God is with mankind,and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And
Miss Jenny was one of the most caring and giving people I have met. She touched many lives in a very positive and lasting way. I am happy to have known Miss Jenny and be able to thank her for helping raise my daughter during her formative years at daycare.
It takes a village to raise a child and Jenny was part of my village. She lovingly helped care for my kids when they were little, as she did for so many children. Her purpose was clear to help others. I loved her sense of humor, fun personality, and giving heart, and I am grateful for our friendship. My heart goes out to her family.
Our sympathy to Jenny's family. We were so fortunate to have Jenny for our neighbor in Woodbine. She was such a fun loving girl. She loved to play with our daughter and would babysit for her also. We were blessed to have known her. She will be greatly missed. Bob and Mary Eby
I was fortunate enough to get to spend my high school years with Jenny. She was always smiling and laughing. I couldn't believe it when I heard the news. Sending prayers to the family. She will be greatly missed.
Jenny was such a hoot and could always lift your spirits with her animal prints and bright personality! Jenny was one of the first people I ever met moving to Iowa and she was warm and welcoming to me and my family Jenny you will be missed. Lindsey and Landon and of course Cleve I am so sorry for your loss and many thoughts and prayers go to you and your family during this trying time.
I'm so sorry for your loss I'm praying for the family
I was saddened to learn of Jenny's passing today. She was a lovely lady, and I was lucky to know her as a friend and colleague. My sympathies to her family.
She was my cousin she will be missed by many may she rest in peace.
Visitation
Ames, IA 50010
Service
Ames, IA 50010
Sign in to add your memory
Let the family know who you are using one of the quick sign-in options below.
Just for verification: we never spam!
Share Photo/Memorial Tributes
Add to Your Calendar
Obit Checkin
Obituary Notifications
Get Updates - tribute notifications
Get Updates - SMS notifications
Help show your support by providing a gift of flowers and spreading the word.
Spread the Word
Help friends and acquaintances of Jennifer Janelle leave memories by sharing to Facebook
Share on Facebook