Judith A. Rivard

Judith A. Rivard - August 31, 2021. Beloved daughter of the late E.K. and late Alda Rivard; step daughter of the late Lothrup Willis; beloved sister of Anne (Matt) Strommer, Scott W. (Jill) Rivard, the late Mark (Theresa) Rivard and the late Virginia Caldwell. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, grand nieces grand nephews, cousins and friends. No Prior Visitation. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Assoc. of WNY. Judith was a librarian for 36 years with the Buffalo and Erie County Library. Thank you to the staff at Amberleigh and Independence Homecare for the caring and kindness. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.DenglerRobertsPernafuneral.com

Judy was a librarian for the Buffalo and Erie County Public library for 36 years, with many accomplishments in her career. Judy Rivard passed away, August 31,2021.

Judy graduated from Eden High School in 1963 and Rosary Hill College in 1968. In 1970, she received her master’s degree in Library Science from Syracuse University. She then began her career as a branch librarian for several years. She went on to become coordinator of services to people with visual impairments and hearing loss. In that position she volunteered for The Niagara Radio Reading Service for the blind, coordinated a workshop on Deaf Awareness with Deaf Adult Services, and was a member of STEPPS, working with families of children with disabilities and their siblings. She was named outstanding employee of the year in her department and received a Communicator of the Year award from St. Mary’s School for the Deaf.

She went back to a branch library, becoming head librarian at the Riverside Library. (now The Elaine M Panty Library). Circulation at the library increased and programs and activities were developed for the patrons and community. She became active in The Riverside Business Association where she received several awards including the Person of the Year Award.

She performed many other duties during her tenure as a librarian. She drove the Lookie Bookie, delivering books throughout the community. She volunteered at the Erie County Fair, promoting Library services. She was President of the Librarians Union, helping to negotiate contracts with the county.

In the community, she was a member of Quota Club of Buffalo, where she worked on several committees, and served as President of the organization. She was involved with the Albright Knox Art Academy, as a member of African-American Historical Association. In her retirement, she volunteered in the library at the Erie County Home.

As a librarian, she, of course spent much of her time in a book. She especially loved mysteries and thrillers, and Stephen King was her favorite author. Judy was a lover and advocate for all animals, especially dogs. She was a guardian donor to the SPCA and ASPCA. Judy was a dog mother to Boots, Sunny, Lili, and Eliza. She also loved music and theater, enjoying concerts at the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, shows at Shea’s Performing Arts Center and community theaters. Judy especially enjoyed dining with the “Gourmet 8” at Buffalo’s finest restaurants.

She will be missed by her friends and family. She was very proud of her many nieces and nephews .and great nieces and nephews, always sharing pictures and their accomplishments with her many friends.

There will be a celebration of her life on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at 1:00 PM, at The Amberleigh, 2330 Maple Rd., Williamsville.