Obituary published on Legacy.com by Blake Chelmsford Funeral Home on Oct. 6, 2025.
Judy Sommers, 78, a former longtime resident of Chelmsford and current resident of Pepperell, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, at Brigham and Womens Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Northville, Michigan, on February 11, 1947, Judy was the daughter of the late Harry Sommers, Jr. and Selma (Heidt) Sommers. She was raised on a farm in Michigan, where she helped care for the bulls, chickens, cows, horses, and other animals. She often shared fond memories of riding the tractor with her brother and cousins, holding up wires so they could safely pass underneath. After the passing of her mother when Judy was just 11 years old, she was lovingly raised by her father and grandparents. She frequently reminisced about walkingregardless of the weatherto a one-room schoolhouse she attended as a child. After graduating from high school, Judy earned a certificate from Schoolcraft College and moved to Washington, D.C., where she proudly worked as a secretary for the CIA. She mastered skills like shorthand, which served her well throughout her career. Her life took her across the country, living in Connecticut, California, Virginia, and eventually back to Michigan, where she began her family. In the early 1980s, Judy and her family relocated to Massachusetts and settled in Chelmsford. There, she worked at Alexanders grocery store before building a long and successful career as a paralegal for several law firms. She also served the community as a Notary Public. Judy had a vibrant spirit and zest for life. She loved playing golfproudly achieving a hole-in-oneand enjoyed card games, line dancing with friends, and was always keeping on the move. Above all, Judy was a devoted mother who made countless sacrifices to ensure her children had every opportunity for success. She was endlessly proud of her son, Ryan, and especially loved cheering him on at his college football games. She was equally proud of her daughter, Michelle, a nurse, and took comfort in knowing she had a loving caregiver always nearby. Judy cherished her five grandchildren and took every chance to spoil them. She was a beloved presence at holidays, particularly Halloween, when she would don fun costumes for the grandchildrens trick-or-treat parties. She delighted in attending their sporting events, dance recitals, and special milestones. A longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Chelmsford, Judy enjoyed teaching Sunday School for many years. She was especially enthusiastic about planning the lessons, always incorporating a creative and fun craft for the children. Later in life, Judy lived with Michelle and her family in Pepperell. She loved gardeningso long as there were no snakes, which she greatly feared! Those who knew Judy will remember her generous heart, her selflessness, and the way she always put others first. Judy is survived by her son Ryan Smith and his wife Leanne of Uxbridge, MA; her daughter Michelle (Smith) Panaccione and her husband Matt of Pepperell, MA; and her five beloved grandchildren: Hannah, Nathan, Meghan, Ava, and Eliot. She also leaves behind her dear cousin Carol Hall and her husband John, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who loved her dearly. Judy was predeceased by her brother, Dales Sommers. Visiting Hours will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 9:30am to 11:30am at the BLAKE CHELMSFORD FUNERAL HOME, 24 Worthen St., CHELMSFORD. A Funeral Service will be celebrated on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 12pm at Trinity Lutheran Church, 170 Old Westford Rd., Chelmsford. Interment in Pine Ridge Cemetery, CHELMSFORD. Memorial donations may be made in Judys memory to Trinity Lutheran Church in
Chelmsford, MA or the
American Heart Association.