URGENT UPDATE: Judith Lois Wachs, a vibrant spirit known for her love of life, color, and music, has passed away at the age of 89, just one day before her 90th birthday. She died on October 19, 2025, after a rich and adventurous life that began in Newark, NJ, on October 20, 1935.
Wachs’ journey was marked by resilience and creativity. Growing up during World War II in Newark, she was deeply influenced by her parents, Morris and Ethel Miller, who instilled in her values of community and perseverance. After graduating from Weequahic High School in 1953, Judy moved to Florida to pursue her education at the University of Miami and the University of Florida, ultimately earning a degree in education.
In her early career, she embraced her passion for teaching as a kindergarten educator and later married Larry Wachs. The couple raised four children while living in various locations, including Washington D.C., Trenton, NJ, and Yardley, PA, before settling in the San Francisco Bay Area in 1970. There, Judy earned a Master’s Degree in Psychology from San Francisco State University, showcasing her commitment to lifelong learning.
Wachs was not just an educator; she was a passionate artist and writer. Her work was featured in the New York Times Modern Love column, where her creative voice resonated with many. A devoted Golden State Warriors fan, she was also actively engaged in political discussions and had a profound appreciation for jazz music.
Her curiosity and adventurous spirit took her around the world; she contributed to humanitarian efforts in Nepal, helping build homes for Tibetan refugees. Additionally, she spent three months in Florence, Italy, immersing herself in the culture and learning the language.
Judy was known for her motto, “Vivere senza rimpianti” (Live without regret), tattooed on her back, reflecting her fierce independence and authenticity. She cherished her close-knit circle of friends and emphasized the importance of living and loving fully—lessons she imparted to her family.
She is survived by her four children: Brinda, Kelly, Greg, and Joe Wachs (with Sussan Corson), along with her grandchildren, including Jun and Tessa Shimizu, and her great-granddaughter, Frankie Fuyu Shimizu.
Funeral arrangements and memorial services are yet to be announced. In the meantime, tributes are pouring in from those who knew Judy, reflecting on the profound impact she had on countless lives.
Stay tuned for more updates as we remember the life and legacy of Judith Lois Wachs, a true beacon of light and creativity.
