Friday, November 6, 2026
Judith Dodge Gewirtz, born on February 24, 1942 in White Plains, New York, passed away on November 12, 2024, in Naples, FL at 82 years old of complications from Alzheimer’s.
Judy was one of the nicest people you could meet. Joyful, thoughtful, kind, fun, and creative, she was always up for an adventure, especially if it involved family, travel and music. Her gift was to make you feel special and seen, and she opened her home to many. Judy leaves behind a legacy of optimism, community, and caring for others. She enriched the lives of those that knew her.
She worked in New York City after graduating from Katherine Gibbs School and met her husband, Joel, in Rye, New York. Judy was no stranger to exploring new towns, having lived in New York, Tennessee, and Massachusetts before her marriage and in New York, Connecticut and Georgia after marrying Joel. They moved to Marco Island in 1983 and Judy left her mark, opening a secretarial service business, serving as President of the Chamber of Commerce and as a board member of the Marco Island Police Foundation. She volunteered with numerous organizations, including the Pilot Club, Cub Scouts, United Church of Christ youth group, American Cancer Society, Christmas Island Style, and the Marco Island Film Festival. Judy also served as officiant at numerous weddings for Marco Island couples.
Judy is survived by Joel Gewirtz, her husband of 57 years, her children Jennifer Raber (husband Barry), Storm Gewirtz, and Matthew Gewirtz (wife Dawn, her daughters Alex and Lilly), her grandchildren Jack, Cole, and Katie Raber, her sister Carol Welch, and her extended family of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and a large community of friends around the world.
Judy loved a party and her family has planned a Celebration of Life on Sunday, February 16th. They look forward to sharing memories of their beloved wife, mother, and friend.
If desired, donations can be made to Marco Dementia Respite.
February 6, 2025 Coastal Breeze News
