Judith Ellen Rich

Judith Ellen Rich, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Natick on September 23, 2025, surrounded by love. She was 88.

Judy is survived by her devoted husband, Walter T. Rich; her sons Stephen (Carol), Michael (Leah Oeur), and Jon (Linda); her brother Tom Simonet (Graham McKinley); and seven cherished grandchildren. She also leaves behind 17 nieces and nephews who adored her.

The heartbreaking loss of her only daughter, Genevieve, in 1985 (at age 18), shaped her life, yet Genevieve's memory was a cherished light she carried tenderly until the end.

Born April 27, 1937, in Minneapolis to Leonard W. Simonet, a lawyer, and his wife Genevieve Solon Simonet, she was educated in Catholic schools, graduating from Trinity College in Washington, D.C.

Judy worked for decades as a passionate advocate for peace and justice, joining major antiwar events at The Hague, Netherlands; Fort Benning, Ga.; and the atomic test site in the Nevada desert.

Joining her sister Mary (1933 - 2020) in Pax Christi USA, she engaged in civil disobedience to protest the Iraq War - even accepting arrest multiple times to ensure her voice for peace was heard. She also traveled to El Salvador during the civil war in the 1980s, bearing witness to the violence and standing courageously for peace, reconciliation, and hope.

Above all, Judy was the heart and rock of her family. She guided loved ones in their life choices and careers, always encouraging them to be compassionate and caring members of society. She was the first employee of WT Rich, the construction company her husband founded, which thrives today as a family business. Later, she found deep purpose mentoring women through Wellesley College's Davis Degree Program.

A gifted natural athlete, Judy taught her children - and even her husband - to swim, snow ski, water ski, and play tennis. Her energy and joy in movement became a legacy passed on to everyone she loved.

In her final years, Judy lived with Alzheimer's disease, yet her light never dimmed. She never stopped smiling and returning love, embodying her gentle soul and unbreakable spirit until the very end.

She was, quite simply, the best mom, the best partner, and the best person anyone could know. She was so much to so many, and her family knows she continues to guide them from a better place.

Her life will be celebrated on Nov. 22, details to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pax Christi, A Place to Turn in Natick, or Cure Alzheimer's Fund in Wellesley.