Judith Karen James

In loving memory, we announce the passing of Judith Karen James (née Hepburn) on December 5, 2023 in her 78th year. She passed away in the Palliative Care Unit at Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Judith was the beloved wife of Alfred W James, Sister of Don (Sharon), Jeanne Randall (Dan) and Nancy Evans (Tom). Special Aunt to Julie, Bill, John, Jason, Kerri and Jill. Loving daughter of the late Mary and Bill Hepburn.

Judy was born in Peterborough, Ont. and attended King George Public School and the former P.C.V.S. High School.

Judy entered the work force as a licensed hair stylist and was employed in the hair industry for over 20 years.

In mid stream of life, Judy decided she would like to go into nursing. She applied for and became an R.P.N. She held several postings at the former Civic Hospital prior to being offered a permanent position at Extendicare Peterborough where she worked for over 20 years, excelling in this field. Unfortunately, blindness forced her to retire. Judy suffered from several medical issues during her life but it never held her back, until her latest issues caused her to become dependent on others.

In compliance with Judy’s wishes, there will not be a funeral service or visitation. Interment Little Lake Cemetery.

In memory of Judith, donations may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada or the Peterborough Humane Society.

A life well lived.

Should You Go First

Should you go first and I remain

To walk the road alone,

I’ll live in memory’s garden, dear,

With happy days we’ve known.

In spring I’ll watch for roses red

When fades the lilac blue,

In early fall when brown leaves fall,

I’ll catch a glimpse of you.

Should you go first and I remain

For battles to be fought,

Each thing you’ve touched along the way

Will be a hallowed spot.

I’ll hear your voice, I’ll see your smile,

Though blindly I may grope,

The memory of your helping hand

Will buoy me on with hope.

Should you go first and I remain

To finish with the scroll,

No length’ning shadows shall creep in

To make this life seem droll.

We’ve known so much of happiness,

We’ve had our cup of joy,

And memory is one gift of God

That death cannot destroy.

Should you go first and I remain,

One thing I’d have you do;

Walk slowly down that long, lone path,

For soon I’ll follow you.

I’ll want to know each step you take,

That I may walk the same,

For someday, down that lonely road,

You’ll hear me call your name.

By: Albert Kennedy Rowswell