Judith A. Bard, age 84, passed away peacefully on August 30th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, and dedication.

Daughter of the late Donald L. and Finette E. (Burton) Bard, she was born March 8, 1940 in Barre, Vermont.

Judy was a devoted elementary educator, known for her passion and commitment to nurturing young minds. Beyond her teaching career, she was a woman of many talents. Her creativity shone through in her woodworking, sewing, knitting, and the many personalized gifts she lovingly crafted for family and friends. An avid reader and lifelong learner, Judy had a deep curiosity about the world and was always eager to explore new subjects.

One of Judy's greatest passions was her love for dogs. She found immense joy in showing, agility training and rescuing dogs, and she devoted much of her life to this cause. Her home was always filled with the lively presence of her beloved pets, each one a testament to her compassionate spirit.

Judy also cherished her time spent traveling across the United States with her father in their RV. Together, they explored the rich history of the nation, visiting countless landmarks and historical sites. These trips were among her most treasured memories, filled with adventure, learning, and a shared love of discovery.

Her fondest memories were of her time spent in Ocean City, NJ, with her parents, Donald and Finette "Chula" Bard, and her grandparents, Leon and Sara Bard. Those cherished days by the ocean were filled with laughter, family, and a deep sense of peace that stayed with her throughout her life.

Judy was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Finette "Chula" Bard, her brother Douglas Bard, and her grandparents, Leon and Sara Bard.

She is survived by her nieces, Nancy Bard and Jennifer Bard Schouten, her grand-nephew Matthew Schouten, her grand-niece Grace Schouten, former sister-in-law, Marion Dunning, and cherished friend Mercedes Iraci.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at Grace United Methodist Church, 468 Broadway, Newburgh NY 12550, on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to her favorite charity, the Newburgh Animal Shelter, 645 Gidney Avenue, Newburgh, NY 12550.