Judith A. Dexter

Judith Dexter Obituary
Judith A. Dexter, a beacon of love, warmth, and service, passed away on April 30, 2024, at her home in Bethlehem, PA, surrounded by her adoring family. She was the beloved wife of Robert "Bob" Rice, who she met at Cornell University before 49 years of loving life together. Born on December 22, 1954, in Spokane, WA and raised in Beacon, NY, she was a daughter of the late William and Irene (Soltish) Dexter.
Judi attended Beacon High School, SUNY Cortland, Cornell University, and Syracuse University College of Law. This foundation of knowledge and ethics propelled her into a distinguished career as a lawyer who focused her practice on disability and family law. Prior to her legal career, Judi dedicated herself to supporting the vulnerable as a "Mother" at a group home, aiding those in need at various nursing homes and psychiatric hospitals, and driving an ice cream truck for three fun-filled years.
Beyond her professional achievements, Judi's interests were as diverse as her talents. She served on the Bethlehem Area School District Board of Directors from 2005 to 2010 with distinction, was a member of the Morning Star Rotary Club, and participated in countless organizations. A knitter, a Liberty High School band parent, and a Clearview PTA mainstay, Judi immersed herself in her community with vigor.
Judi was a devoted mother who provided constant support and countless enriching experiences for her three children. Her joy of life was infectious, whether taking spontaneous trips, riding in convertibles, or hosting numerous parties. Over her last few years Judi's happiest moments were spent watching dolphins in Cape May, and spending as much time as possible with her 5 grandchildren.
Judi will be lovingly remembered by her husband Bob; daughters, Andrea Hooker and her husband Alexander in Plano, TX, and Beth Dexter-Rice and her husband Thomas in Herndon, VA; son, Thomas Dexter-Rice and his wife Moira in Arlington, VA; grandchildren, Alexander, Robert, and Claire Hooker, and Michael and Sarah Reinstein; siblings, Susan Dexter of Beacon, NY, Christine Dean and her husband Kevin of Keswick, VA, Timothy Dexter and his wife Etha of Beacon, NY, Anne Marie Miller and her husband Jeffrey of Newburgh, NY, William Dexter of Beacon, NY, and her half-sister Lynda House of Orangevale, CA; and Morgan, her cherished therapy dog, who brought comfort to many. She was predeceased by her brother Thomas Dexter.
A wake will be held on Monday, May 6, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden St., Bethlehem PA 18018. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Central Moravian Church in the Old Chapel, 44 W. Church St. Bethlehem PA 18018 where the family will receive relatives and friends from 10:30 AM until the time of service. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
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