Judy Zielinski, 83, of New Harbor, passed away on Oct. 27 at home surrounded by her family. She was born on Jan. 21, 1927 in Rome, N.Y. to Gordon and Ruth Thomas.
The highlights of her childhood were playing sports with her brothers and spending weekends at a family camp on Otter Lake. She attended Rome public schools and graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1945. Judy held many jobs, including positions at Griffiss Air Force Base and Rome State School, but was primarily a homemaker.
Judy spent many vacations on the Maine coast, and fell in love with the area and the people she met. After seeing Pemaquid Point Lighthouse she bought a cottage nearby, moving permanently in 1992. Judy spent much of her time walking the rocks, exploring Maine towns, fishing in her boat, and spending time with friends. She was an avid gardener and bird watcher. She also worked at the Sea Gull Shop, the Bradley Inn and volunteered at the Pemaquid Lighthouse. Judy was a very special person, funny with a kind heart. She was an amazing mother and grandmother.
Judy was predeceased by her parents, Gordon and Ruth Thomas; brothers, Thomas Thomas and William Thomas; and sister, Jean Homan.
She is survived by her daughter, Debrah Hutchins and longtime companion James C. Benner Jr. of New Harbor; granddaughters, Jessica Hutchins and boyfriend Nathan Hilton of Nobleboro, Leah LaClaire and husband Steven of Essex Junction, Vt., and Amanda Benner and boyfriend Steven Herr of South Burlington, Vt.; great-grandson Rhys LaClaire; and several other close family and friends.
Services 11 a.m. Sat., Nov. 6, weather permitting, the service will be outside of the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, with a reception in the Learning Center. In case of rain, the service and reception will be held in the Learning Center.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bristol First Responders, 104 South Side Rd., New Harbor, ME 04554, or to Bristol Parks and Recreation, P.O. Box 339, Bristol, ME 04539.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
