Judy Nelson Herman

HERMAN, JUDY NELSON, 85, of Florida and formerly of Crofton, Maryland, passed away from complications of Alzheimer's disease. She died September 8, 2013, at South River Health and Rehabilitation Center in Edgewater, MD. Judy was born in Dayton, Ohio on January 22, 1928, the second of five children and only girl, to the late Robert James and Mildred Miles Donaldson. Judy grew up in and around Dayton, Ohio, where she graduated from high school and then attended Miami University, as did her parents, brothers and later, many cousins, nieces and nephews. Judy always dreamed of being a dancer and model and followed her dream, moving with her 3 year old daughter to New York City in the early 1950's. She realized her dream and was a successful Model for a number of years. In 1956 she married William D. Nelson, moved to New Jersey and spent the next 20 years raising and caring for her family. Another of her dreams was to finish her education and become a social worker. In 1984 she graduated from Elmira College with a degree in aging services and at that time she was serving as director of the Area Agency for Aging for Steuben County, New York. In 1987 she graduated from Rhode Island College and began her career as a social worker. Her first love was Hospice Care, and she spent many years in this field, as well as many other modalities related to Social Work. Judy was Director of Social Work at Hospice of the Chesapeake for about 7 years. The family asks that donations be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake in Judy's name, or to a hospice of your choice, in your own home town. Judy was a true social worker her entire life, always trying to help others solve any problems they had. We will miss you Mom. Judy is predeceased by her former husband, William D. Nelson, 3 brothers, Robert J. of Bethlehem, Pa; Hale C. of Smyrna, TN; and Terrence D. of Jackson, OH. Surviving are one brother Miles W. of Marion, IN; and four children, Deborah Nelson of Palm Coast, Florida; Alexandra and (husband Matt) Anthony of Crumpton, MD; Charles and (wife Heidi) Nelson of Raleigh, NC; and Miles and (wife Bonnie Boumiea) Nelson of N. Wales, PA. She is also survived by two grandchildren, Jessica (husband John) Howard and Allison Martin, both of Maryland, and four great grandchildren. In addition she is survived by three sisters in law, many cousins, nieces, nephews and other extended family, all of whom have surrounded her with love throughout her lifetime. According to Judy, her family was her greatest gift. There is no planned service. Judy's wish was to be cremated and taken to the favorite family vacation spot by her four children. The Galena Funeral Home, Galena, MD, will be handling the cremation. To Donate to Hospice of the Chesapeake: Hospice of the Chesapeake Anne Arundel County Administrative Offices, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122. Please contact our Philanthropy Team at 443.837.1500 or email Foundation@hospicechesapeake.org. To make an online donation, please go to the website at: https://hospicechesapeake.thankyou4caring.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=298