Judith Scruggs Dean

Judith Scruggs Dean, 83, departed on July 27th in the company of loved ones. A longtime resident of Rochester, New York, she was born on Laney Road near Highland Park. In 1946, her parents purchased The Spring House on Monroe Ave a few years after The Great Depression. Judy fondly recalled living above the restaurant during their ownership. The restaurant is now known as Monroe's.

A graduate of Brighton High School, in her early years Judy modeled for Kodak and served as secretary to Louis Wehle, founder of the Genesee Brewing Company. She loved beer and rock 'n' roll, and from 1968 to 1978 co-owned a Hammond B3 organ rental business with her former husband, James. Their organs were rented by legendary artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Gregg Allman, The Jackson 5, and Billy Preston, among others.

Judy had an undeniable sweet tooth with a particular inclination toward ice cream. Many photos capture her with a cone in hand and her signature infectious grin. She also had a deep love for animals, especially dogs and horses. She rescued five Old English Sheepdogs over the years, and cheered on many race horses at the Finger Lakes Race Track, often owned by her longtime companion, Richard.

A vibrant social butterfly with an unmistakable sense of humor, Judy excelled in the art of sales. One of her most memorable roles involved traveling the country to grocery stores, selling Douglas Quikut knives. She would entice shoppers to attend her demonstrations by offering them a "free handy dandy little paring knife." Judy delivered lively demonstrations, often pretending to slice someone's sneaker in half before revealing her own "sacrificial sneaker" from behind the podium. Her sharp wit and charm made her unforgettable. While she has moved on, we regret to inform you that those Douglas Quikut knives are no longer under warranty. Her humor, however, lives on in all of us who were lucky to know her.

Judy is survived by former husband James, their four children: Theresa, James (Laurie), Julie, David and grandchildren Isabella, Alexandra, Olivia, James, Marcus, Lia and Charlie.

In lieu of calling hours, Judy's life will be celebrated at Monroe's, 3001 Monroe Avenue, on Wednesday, August 6th from 4 to 7 p.m. (smart-casual attire requested, bright colors encouraged). For those unable to attend, the family invites you to honor her memory by cracking open a Genny Red Eye in her name. Cheers to a life well lived.