Judith Hudkins

Judith Kay Hudkins, 67, of Andover, MA, passed away on January 16, 2023, after a long, courageous battle with liver disease and diabetes. Born on January 3, 1956, in Pontiac, MI, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Mari-Karen (Trager) Brown.

Judy and her husband Tom were introduced by Judy’s sister in 1983 at one of Tom’s softball games in NJ. They immediately realized they shared a unique laugh like no other and married just over a year later. They created a wonderful life together, highlighted by double feature movie dates and the raising of their three children. Judy knew no greater joy than being a mother until she was blessed with two grandchildren. She lived for her time with them, and they with her.

Judy was an artist to her core, earning a prestigious art scholarship in high school, a degree in Fine Arts at Eastern Michigan University, and then going on to be an Art Teacher for ten years. Her passion was painting on larger-than-life canvases.

Judy’s other passion was children. She ran a successful daycare out of her home for over 20 years, finding tremendous joy in caring for hundreds of children, fostering their growth and creativity, and forming close bonds with many of their parents. Towards the end of her career, Judy was able to combine her two passions, holding art classes for children in her home.

Survivors include her husband Thomas of 38 years; three daughters: Molly Hudkins and wife Jennifer Hudkins of Barrington, NH, Erin Hudkins of Chelmsford, MA, and Kira Hudkins and partner Rory Cochrane of Andover, MA; two grandchildren: Lily and Enzo Hudkins; and four sisters: Jill Penna and husband Bob Penna of Boston, MA, Jeannie McLellan of Nutley, NJ, Joni Evanson of Chesterfield, MI, and Julie Napper and husband Gary Napper of Davison, MI; as well as countless nieces and nephews, whom she all loved dearly. She was predeceased by her brother Robert Brown, Jr.

SERVICES: Visiting hours will be held Saturday, January 28, 2023, from 10 am to 1 pm, at McDonald-Finnegan Funeral Home, 322 Main St, Stoneham, MA. A memorial service will be held immediately afterwards. In lieu of flowers, please honor Judy with a donation to the International Child Art Foundation (https://www.icaf.org/InLovingMemory/index.php).