On February 15, 2023, Judy left this world as she wished, peacefully at home with her daughter Cheryl and trusted companion Sammy (the Cat) close by. Judy was a devoted wife and mother and experienced life to the fullest with her husband of 41 years, Ronald “Ronnie” Burns, who preceded her in death.
After Ronnie’s death in February 2020, Judy continued to embrace life and spent three great years with Cheryl embarking on the next and final stage of her life. She was proud to move into her new home, and together with Cheryl and Sammy, they decorated, laughed, loved, sometimes fought, and always made up. Many days were spent running errands, going on the hunt for books and magazines, and looking for a nearby Tim’s or Burger King to fuel Judy’s cravings for forbidden treats, and as Judy would say, “my doctor says a treat every once in a while, is OK.” Many memorable times were held around the dinner table with family, and the most recent get-together was for pizza only a few weeks before Judy entered the hospital.
Judy cherished spending time with her family and, throughout her life, had many adventures with Cheryl and Ronnie. In her early years, she enjoyed going to horse races with Ronnie, camping, tobogganing, skating, and accompanying him on golf weekends. After Cheryl was born, she joined her parents for many family trips to PEI or Bridgetown, and Ronnie always got Judy and Cheryl settled in with snacks by a pool before he would go off to play a few rounds of golf. Christmas Eve at Judy and Ronnie’s was always the highlight of the holidays, with family and friends dropping by for Ronnie’s homemade Chinese food.
Judy was truly loved by Ronnie, and together they passed that authentic love onto their daughter. Over the past several years, Cheryl returned the love with genuine caring for her mother and father during their declining health. Judy surprised her doctors, living with many health issues and cheating death on several occasions. Some would say Judy had nine lives, and it is no wonder she related so well to her feline friend Sammy.
Although the world has lost a special person, Judy’s love will live on in all those who knew and loved her. Her love will sustain Cheryl and comfort the family and friends she leaves behind to grieve. Farewell Mama Jude.
Judy is survived by her only child, cherished daughter Cheryl Ann, her last surviving sibling, Nancy Newbury, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was predeceased by her husband Ronald, her parents Helen and Arthur Newbury, sister Barbara, and brother Kenneth.
A special nod is given to Judy’s sister, Nancy, who was a close companion throughout Judy’s life. A friendly competition between the two sisters lasted a lifetime, but in the end, they were both winners.
Heartfelt appreciation to all the caregivers and healthcare professionals who contributed to Judy’s care in illness and health, especially Dr. Mark Stender and Dr. Ashley Cox. Immense gratitude to Cheryl Rhind, whose unconditional love and care for Judy at the end of her life was invaluable.
Cremation has taken place, and a private burial will occur later. Donations in Judy’s memory can be made to the SPCA or a charity of your choice.
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