She came, she loved, she lived to the fullest, she was married 50 years to Dave, she sailed, she travelled, she wore yellow, she beat cancer 4 times, she made lifelong friends by the dozens, she taught, she played bridge, she knit, she enjoyed Black Russians and cocktail hour, she read books, she was the strongest woman most people knew...and she baked the best pies on the planet. Not many people can say that their life to-do lists are complete...but Judy, a voracious planner, made sure she left no stone unturned when it came to her bucket list. And even when slowed down by physical issues still made sure the yearly Hilton Head vacation and the anniversary Hawaii trip happened as scheduled.
She shared this life in true partnership with Dave, who, after 2 months after meeting her, knew she was the only woman to spend to the rest of his life with (and 50 years is quite a milestone). All of these wonderful qualities, she has modeled, taught and instilled in her two children, Kelly (Sylvain) and Duncan (Maria), as well as in her ‘cherubs’...6 beautiful grandchildren whom she boasted and bragged about constantly: Lucas, Chloée, Keeghan, Christopher, Ève and Jade. They each have more than a bit of ‘grandma’ in each one of them as they grow up and plan, live, and experience their own lives. Her nieces and nephews—Brennan, Carolyn & Jed, Dan & Molly, Bob & Kim, Sharon & John and Wayne —all held specials places in her heart.
Apart from family, she shared her life with fantastic friends...that could themselves be considered family, including the Phys Ed Gang, Trident Yacht Club and other boat friends, Bridge Group, Book Club, Beta Sigma Phi (sorority), and great teaching and coaching colleagues from Merivale High School. It was an extremely full, excited and love-filled life of 73 years.
Thanks especially to Nurse Aniko and Dr. Edward Fitzgibbon at the Ottawa General Hospital for the love-filled care they provided to Judy in the last week. Your kindness will not be forgotten. :)
Watch out heaven: Here comes Judy Kerr...she will no doubt spruce up the place with some yellow and plan some great parties up there. Enjoy! We love you Judy...Mom...Grandma. xox
NOTE: In lieu of a typical funeral, Judy has requested a Celebration of Life Party, full of yellow, to take place in a few months (Feb/March TBD). Details to come at a later date.
Condolences / Tributes / Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-233-1143
Published in The Ottawa Citizen on Nov. 16, 2015 in a shorter version