Judith Lynn Rodgers, enjoyed helping others
Judith “Judy” Lynn Rodgers, 76, of Lewes, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord Saturday, Sept. 3, 2022, in the loving embrace of her daughter, Megan, at their family home in Virginia. She is predeceased by her parents and by her older brother Joseph Jester II. She is survived by her devoted husband and constant companion of 35 years, Walker “Rusty” Rodgers; her siblings, Suzanne Morley and David Jester; her daughter, Megan Walker; son-in-law, Bill Walker; cherished grandchildren, Leo, Liza and Maeve; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Born Sept. 9, 1945, in Wilmington, Judy was the daughter of Charlotte Martin and Joseph Jester. She imparted her exceptional kindness and wisdom to countless children over her 20-year career as a preschool teacher at St. Anthony of Padua in Wilmington. She continued her life’s work long into her retirement through volunteerism, most notably by reading to and sharing time with children in schools around Lewes.
Judy was an active member of St. Edmond Catholic Church in Rehoboth, where she worked with the underserved and elderly through homemade meal services and the social service organization Meals on Wheels. Judy made numerous friends during her home visits. When given the opportunity, she took her grandchildren to teach them invaluable life lessons through her actions, emphasizing the importance of “deeds” over words. She always sensed where and when she was needed, one of her many gifts. The abundant grace she so effortlessly displayed impacted the lives of all who were fortunate to know her.
Judy loved to dance, and she exhibited exemplary self-care through spiritual practice and exercise. She also enjoyed lunch dates with friends she held dear, beach and shopping trips with her beloved sister Sue, an occasional martini, and time in the comforting company of her brother David, his wife Judy, and all the nieces and nephews she loved so dearly.
Above all, Judy was a committed and caring wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, whose greatest joy and passion were her grandchildren, Leo, Liza and Maeve, three heavenly blessings from daughter Megan and son-in-law Bill Walker. She also shared a deep and loving bond and adored beyond measure Max, Liza, Katharine, and Mason, whose last words to Judy were heartfelt and brave amidst great pain at the thought of losing her. Judy was immensely proud of them, along with their father Chad and mother Elyse, whom Judy loved just like a daughter.
The prospect of leaving loved ones behind to face life without her love and support was, for Judy, the most difficult part of her passing. But she lives on through them and through all who cherish her precious memory forever.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 16, at St. John the Beloved Catholic Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington, officiated by Judy’s close friend, Father Edward Aigner. A celebratory reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Meals on Wheels Lewes-Rehoboth, 32409 Lewes Georgetown Hwy., Lewes, or Blue Ridge Hospice, info@blueridgehospice.org.
