Marilyn A. May

Marilyn A. May, 85, of Black River, New York, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024 at Samaritan Medical Center surrounded by her family.  

She was born on February 20, 1939, in Buffalo, New York, the daughter of Kenneth and Jennie (Klopp) Crane. Marilyn graduated from West Seneca West High School and was a dedicated homemaker for many years. 

 In 1992, she moved to Black River and began volunteering as a driver for the Black River Ambulance Squad where she met Alan Gaines and his family. Soon after, she became an EMT, proudly serving the community for over 25 years. She was a staple amongst the Jefferson County fire and EMS communities. Everyone who met her loved her and so "Mom" was born.

After caring for and upon the passing of fellow Squad member Mary Gaines, Marilyn lovingly helped raise Mary’s children, Jonathan and Kathleen Gaines, as her own. Throughout her life, she also cared for many others in their homes. 

Marilyn had a passion for knitting, crafting, and traveling, which she enjoyed alongside her family and friends. She loved flip-flops and anything purple. 

She is survived by her children: Cheryl (Steve) Pena of TX; William (Lori) May of Cape Vincent, NY; Barbara (Lee) Perez of Black River, NY; Kathleen and Jonathan Gaines of Black River, NY; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her sister, Elaine Osgood of Rochester, NY and her Squad “husband” Alan Gaines of Black River, NY.

The family will celebrate Marilyn’s life at her “Coming Out Party” at the Black River Ambulance Squad on Monday, October 14,  at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Black River Ambulance Squad; PO Box 314 Black River, NY 13612.

Arrangements are with Bruce Funeral Home, Black River, NY. Online condolences can be left at www.brucefh.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.