Judith J. McCusker

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Judith McCusker, beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Judy, a resident of Clinton, Connecticut for 45 years, most recently resided in Madison, Connecticut. She peacefully passed away on April 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born in Rockville, Connecticut, in 1939, Judy was the daughter of the late Stanley and Jane Czarnecki. She graduated from Rockville High School and went on to attend Boston College, where she earned a degree in Education in 1961. In 1962, Judy married the love of her life, James McCusker.

Judy is survived by her loving children and their spouses: Jane and Bob Higgins of Windham, NH; Jim McCusker of Deep River, CT; Krista and Art Ackert of Poughkeepsie, NY; and Maura and Jim Doxsee of Killingworth, CT. She was incredibly proud of her seven grandchildren: Alyson Wheeler, Melissa Lohmann, Patrick Higgins, Lindsey Ackert, Ryan Ackert, Elizabeth Doxsee, and Meghan Doxsee, as well as her two great-grandchildren, Jackson and Callum Wheeler. Judy is also survived by her brother, Jack and his wife MaryAnn Czarnecki; her sisters-in-law Ellen Affanato and her husband Don, Maura Devin, and brother-in-law Bob McCusker, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Besides her husband and parents, Judy was predeceased by her daughter-in-law, Nell McCusker. Judy cherished every moment with her family and was a constant source of wisdom and love.

A woman of deep faith, Judy was an active parishioner at St. Mary’s Church of the Visitation in Clinton. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she found great fulfillment in sharing it with others. Judy’s involvement in her church was extensive, and she made a lasting impact as a lector, Eucharistic minister, and CCD teacher. She also had a deep connection to the retreats at Holy Family, which she enthusiastically shared with her fellow parishioners.

Judy’s professional career as an elementary school teacher spanned Rockville, Connecticut, Quincy, Massachusetts, and Madison, Connecticut. She inspired countless students over the years with her passion for education and her unwavering dedication to their growth.

Beyond her work, Judy was a devoted volunteer, contributing her time and energy to organizations such as Meals on Wheels, Families Helping Families, and the Henry Carter Hull Library. Her selfless service reflected her belief in the power of community and her commitment to helping those in need. In 2015, she was honored with the Connecticut Shoreline's Beacon Award for her outstanding volunteer efforts.

Visitation will be held at Swan’s Funeral Home in Clinton, CT, on Sunday, April 6th, from 2:00-5:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Church of the Visitation on Monday, April 7th, at 11:00. A graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to Connecticut Hospice or Meals on Wheels.