Judith Lenore Grant

Judith Lenore Grant, known affectionately as Judy, passed away on November 1, 2024, at the age of 85 in Bradenton, FL. Born on December 20, 1938, in Passaic, NJ, to the late Ethel and William Blanda, Judy lived a vibrant life filled with creativity and community involvement.

Judy always lived believing in "family first", and this trait has been passed down to her children and grandchildren alike. Family was the cornerstone of her life.

Judy was a true social butterfly. She was an active member of several social groups, including the Lions Club, Empty Nesters, Bunko, Lunch Bunch, Esplanade’s Sit & Train and Yoga classes, and the Wine Club. She was a devout parishioner at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church. Judy was known for her elegant appearance, never seen without her jewelry and lipstick, and her little white fluffy dog, Emily, was a constant and beloved companion.

Judy's artistic talents were evident in her mastery of oils, acrylics, and watercolors. She also applied her creative skills to fashion, having studied at Traphagan School of Fashion and later designing and sewing clothing, especially for her daughter during her childhood. Her professional life included a significant tenure as a Senior Administrative Assistant at IBM, where she was well-respected for her organizational skills and dedication.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Richard Thomas Grant, and her brothers, David and William Blanda, Jr. She leaves behind a loving family including her children, Michael Grant, Thomas Grant, and Wendy Blackwell; her eight grandchildren, Jennifer Kirkus, Victoria Marchello, Alexandra O’Berry, Andrew Grant, Sofia Grant, David Blackwell, Matthew Blackwell, and Dylan Grant; and two great-grandchildren, Vivienne Kirkus and Parker Marie O’Berry. Also mourning her loss are her sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Ann Marie Strati, Pat Rapoza, and Ed Rapoza.

A celebration of life service for Judy will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 11 AM at Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center, located at 4310 Solutions Lane, Bradenton, FL 34211.

The Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center in Bradenton, FL, is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at act.alz.org, in honor of Judy.

Judy's legacy of creativity, community involvement, and devotion to family will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.