Judith Elizabeth "Judy" Black

Judith Elizabeth Black (née Morton), affectionately known as Judy, passed away on July 19, 2024, in Hamburg, NY, at the age of 85. Born on February 12, 1939, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Judy led a life marked by loyalty, determination and a profound commitment to her community.

Judy graduated from New Bedford High School in 1956 and continued her education at New Bedford Tech (UMASS), earning a BS in Textile Design & Fashion in 1960. She began her career teaching in Massachusetts and periodically in the Buffalo area. Eventually, Judy ventured into the real estate business in Western New York, becoming a highly successful broker in the Buffalo Southtowns area for nearly 50 years.

Judy believed in doing the right thing - for her community, for people in need, and for the betterment of others' lives. She was often found making a meal for a neighbor, steering a committee or standing up for things that mattered to her and others.

In addition to participating in the League of Women Voters, Exchange Club and Rotary, Judy was an active member of the Hamburg United Methodist Church in Hamburg, NY. She volunteered there in various capacities, including President of the Board of Trustees and Staff Parish Relations. She was also instrumental in founding the Sparks of Hope Recovery Center and actively participated in the family support group.

Judy was fiercely dedicated to her family and grandchildren, traveling across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut to support them in their various activities and major life events.

A woman of many interests, Judy was known for her love of sports, particularly basketball and the Buffalo Bills. She was a cheerleader at heart, and always rooted for the underdog. Judy also had a passion for the finer things in life, including travel, good food, fine art and creating beautiful, welcoming spaces in her home.

Most of all, Judy loved the beach – whether she was enjoying the pink-sand beaches of Harbour Island, a trip to the Caribbean with friends, or sitting with her family in what she considered God's country – Westport, MA - she was happiest in her beach chair.

Judy is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Dahill and her sons Seve and Ricardo Llanio, Jessica Dahill and her husband Paul Lariviere and their sons Christian and Robert Lariviere, and Jane (Dahill) Flanigan and her husband Andy and their daughters Katie and Molly Flanigan.

A service to celebrate Judy's life will be held at Hamburg United Methodist Church on Monday, September 16 at 10:30am. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Sparks of Hope Recovery Center, 107 Main Street, Hamburg, NY 14075 or online at www.sparksofhopewny.org.

Arrangements are being handled by Loomis, Offers & Loomis of Hamburg, NY.

Judy's legacy of kindness, elegance, and community service will be remembered by all who knew her.