Judith Ann Howes-Hacker, known to many as Judy, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025, leaving behind a life remembered for its kindness, compassion, and quiet devotion to others. She grew up in Montclair, New Jersey, where she spent most of her life surrounded by family, friends, and a community she cared deeply about. Montclair remained close to her heart, as it was the place where many of her most cherished memories were made. 

Judith worked as a nurse’s aide at St. Vincent Nursing Home in Cedar Grove, New Jersey. She chose a profession that reflected her compassionate nature and her genuine desire to help others. Caring for the elderly was especially meaningful to her, and she devoted herself to bringing comfort, dignity, and kindness to those she served. 

Judy was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Howard Hacker; her brother, Vincent Howes; and her parents. She is lovingly remembered by her brothers, Frank and Agrippa (Rosalind); and her sisters, Miriam (Kennelm), P. Rachael (Richardson), Leah, Bernice, B. Augustine, and Alweina. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and dear friends who will continue to cherish her memory. 

Judith was often described as the heart of every gathering. She had a gentle way of making others feel seen, valued, and cared for. She was always ready with encouraging words and offered comfort to anyone going through a difficult time. One of Judith’s most endearing qualities was her thoughtfulness. She had a special habit of remembering everyone’s birthday. She loved sending cards and kept a calendar carefully marked with the birthdays of family and friends so she would never miss the opportunity to brighten someone’s day. Her faith was also an important part of her life, and she was an active member of her church community. Through her faith and her actions, she lived a life centered on kindness, compassion, and service to others. Judith had a deep love for poetry and writing. She often dreamed of publishing her poetry someday and found joy and meaning in expressing her thoughts and feelings through words.

Even in her passing, Judith continued to give to others. She chose to donate her body to science so that future students and medical professionals could learn and grow in their fields. This final act reflected the same generosity and caring spirit that defined her life. Judith will be remembered for her warmth, her kindness, and the quiet but powerful way she touched the lives of those around her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.