Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lehrer-Gibilisco Funeral Home - Rahway on Jan. 9, 2026.
Judith M. Olson passed on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Judy was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, aunt, friend, and so much more to all who were fortunate enough to know and love her. She leaves behind a large and devoted family, including her three sons, Rob, Jack, and Gary; her daughters-in-law, Sandra and Vanesa; and her four cherished grandchildren, Katie, Tommy, Donna, and Erica (and bonus grandchildren Megan, Theresa, Brigid and Brad). Though not named individually, many others whose lives she touched will miss her deeply.
Judy was born June 22, 1941, and spent her early years growing up in
Irvington, New Jersey. The second of seven siblings in the Bucher family, she later moved to Avenel, where she completed high school at Woodbridge High, Class of 1959. She eventually settled in
Rahway, New Jersey, where she built a life and raised a family after falling in love with-and marrying-her lifelong partner, Alfred Olson. Together, Judy and Al created their family of five and shared many passions and adventures. They enjoyed long walks, bike rides, and, most of all, Saturday nights out dancing with friends-frequenting favorite spots like the Colorado Cafe, Whisky Cafe, and the Yellow Rose for line dancing. At home, game nights filled with cards and board games were a staple, as were summers spent camping in Cape May and Wildwood. The occasional white-water rafting adventure added a bit of excitement, too.
For forty years, Judy dedicated herself to a long and respected career in secretarial and bookkeeping work at A.G. Olson Income Tax Service. Above all, she took immense pride in being a devoted mother and later a loving grandmother. Family traditions meant everything to her-especially Christmas Eve gatherings, Christmas morning breakfasts, and the annual attendance of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" musical, which created lasting memories for all. "Spaghetti Tuesday" dinners (sometimes swapping spaghetti for her 'famous' baked mac and cheese), followed by Jeopardy and intense cookie baking, became a beloved weekly ritual she shared with her oldest granddaughter, Katie.
Following the passing of her husband Al in 2005, Judy continued to live life fully and enthusiastically. She embraced new hobbies, including joining a senior roller-skating club at the South Amboy Roller Rink and a senior hiking club that explored new trails each week. Through these activities, she formed meaningful friendships and countless joyful memories.
Judy delighted in the simple pleasures of life-listening to one of her favorite artists Rod Stewart, attending plays and musical concerts whenever she could (especially alongside her cousin Betty Ellen), savoring a good cup of tea, and indulging her sweet tooth, particularly anything chocolate. She also loved sharing good meals and food adventures with her family.
Services to celebrate Judy's life will be announced shortly. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor her memory.
Judy's kindness and vibrant, adventurous spirit will not soon be forgotten. She will be forever missed, and her family is deeply grateful for the time they shared with her and for the light and love she brought into their lives.
Funeral service to be announced****