Judith Anne Lewis

Mrs. Judith Anne "Judy" Lewis (née Loewenberg), aged 85, passed away on August 2, 2026, following complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Born on August 30, 1940, in Vermillion, South Dakota, Judy aspired to live a life defined by love and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Judy spent her formative years in Bronxville, New York, where her father was a Darwin scholar, author, and professor of American History at Sarah Lawrence College. After attending Sarah Lawrence College herself, she met her husband Allen in the summer of 1971 in Connecticut and they Wed in Puerto Rico. Her journey through life took her from Connecticut to the heart of Missouri and eventually to Illinois.

In Jefferson City, Missouri, Judy found both purpose and community at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. Though undeniably Jewish by heritage and identity, she embraced the church as a place of belonging when she began running its after-school care program, ultimately choosing to convert to Catholicism. Judy remained an active member of St. Peter’s for over 25 years, volunteering in many capacities until advancing Alzheimer’s necessitated her move to Illinois to be closer to her children.

Judy’s passion was taking care of children, and she ran a daycare out of her home for many years. Additionally, she served as the longtime president of Dreams to Reality, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing professional clothing for women transitioning into the workforce. Her leadership and compassion left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Judy cherished such simple joys of decorating the house, attending the symphony, reading, playing cards with friends, spending time with family, and doting on her pets. Above all else, she was a caregiver—a proud, loving nurturer who gave generously of herself to everyone she encountered. Her warmth touched people of all ages but especially children, whom she adored.

Judy is survived by her sister Dr. Sarah (Randy) Levine; her daughter Rachel Lewis, son James Lewis and his wife Rachel; and her grandchildren Vivian and Camille. She is predeceased by her parents Bert and Anne Loewenberg, her devoted husband Allen Gedney Lewis and her brother Dr. Robert Loewenberg.

Judy’s legacy is one of love and generosity—a testament to a life well-lived in service to others. Though Alzheimer’s stripped her of the ability to communicate, it never affected her ability to love. She remained a bright light at her nursing home until the very end. She will be deeply missed by many, especially her children. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her and may she rest in eternal peace.

Those looking to honor Judy's life and memory are encouraged to donate to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund (curealz.org).