Judith Lynn Weisel

Judy Weisel, 71, of Tucson, AZ, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by loving family, after a period of brief illness.

Judy was born in Englewood, NJ in 1954 and lived most of her life in the New York City Metro area before relocating to Arizona a few years ago.

Judy was passionate about the work she did, the people she loved and the things she loved to do. She proudly dedicated her working life to helping others in the fields of social work and education. When Judy wasn’t working, you could often find her attending Bruce Springsteen concerts, traveling – especially to Ireland – exploring photography, and absorbing all the cultural offerings of living in a metropolitan area. Judy was an avid sports fan, and especially loved the New York Yankees, the New York Giants and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Sylvia Weisel, her brother Martin Weisel and her dear friend and companion Jim Mellett. She is survived by her brother, Maury (Annarae) Weisel, and her nieces and nephews, Allyson, Kevin, Amy, Carol and Adam, and their families. Additionally, she is survived by many cousins and friends, including those from childhood; until the end of her life Judy spoke fondly of the friends she made in Yonkers, NY and at Crane Lake Camp. Judy is also survived by her “bonus family,” made up of her best friend of nearly fifty years, Nancy Vanden Houten, and all of Nancy’s family, who loved Judy as their own sister and aunt.

Judy always made a loving home for furry friends, treating every one of her cats so much like children that family members would often receive greeting cards from just the cats. She leaves behind Mijo, Floki and Izzy and is now reunited with the seven cats that have passed on before her.

Judy loved spending time with family and friends and will be missed by so many every day. A Celebration of Life is planned for family and friends in NJ in March.

Judy was passionate about preserving our democracy. Memorial contributions in Judy's memory may be made to the Brennan Center for Justice or similar organizations.