Justin Laurance Ochs

It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts, the family of Justin Laurance Ochs announces his sudden passing on July 30, 2024.

Justin was born on December 29, 1972, to Marilyn and Laurance Ochs in Washington, DC. He spent his early years on the grounds of the National Cathedral where he was a “lifer”, attending Beauvoir School nursery class through graduation from St. Albans School for boys in 1991. A talented athlete, Justin earned varsity letters in football and golf, and was recognized as an all-conference wide receiver. His success in the classroom led to his admission to Cornell University, where he played football and was a member of Delta Upsilon fraternity.

After graduating from Cornell in 1995, Justin continued his education at the University of Virginia Law School where he was a member of the Virginia Journal of International Law, graduating in 1999. He began his career practicing corporate law at Cravath, Swaine & Moore in New York before joining WilmerHale’s Washington office in 2001, where he would spend the rest of his career. At WilmerHale, Justin was known for a legendary work ethic and rose quickly to Partner. He served as chair of the firm’s Corporate Practice Group and was a member of the Management Committee. Colleagues and clients alike appreciated his impeccable judgment, integrity, collegiality, selfless mentorship, and sense of humor.

Shortly after he arrived at WilmerHale, Justin met the love of his life, Darcy Van Kirk, who was also an Associate at the firm. They married in 2005 and raised two beautiful daughters, Emily and Amanda, who were the pride of Justin’s life.

Justin’s favorite days were spent in the company of Darcy and their girls, his family and close friends. The family loved their time at Bethany Beach, along with their dog Tucker, and traveling to Sea Island, Georgia each summer. A life-long sports enthusiast, Justin especially loved playing and watching golf, and the Washington Capitals, whose games he started attending in the 1980’s with his father and brother. He also loved the Dallas Cowboys, and watching his brother play football at the University of Southern California. When confronted with difficult situations, he would always remark “We’ll figure it out!” Justin will be so incredibly missed by all those who were lucky enough to be a part of his life.

He is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Darcy Van Kirk Ochs, daughters Emily and Amanda, his parents Laurance and Marilyn Ochs, his brother Brennan and wife Natalie, niece Peyton, nephew Henry, brother in-law John R. “Skoot” Van Kirk, Jr. and wife Sue, nieces Becky, Katey, and Maggie, brother in-law Jamie Van Kirk and wife Chelsea, nieces Morgan and Samantha, mother in-law Jane Van Kirk, and friends and family too numerous to name. A memorial service will be at 10:00AM ET at St. Alban’s Parish, followed by a reception at the Chevy Chase Club.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to an education fund for Justin’s daughters at the address below:

College America

c/o Robert Robertory

Northwest Mutual, Two Lights

10306 Eaton Place Suite 420

Fairfax, VA 22030