Judith Ann Bukowski

Judith Ann Bukowski departed this life on August 28, 2024. She is survived by her brothers David (Cindy) Bukowski and Paul (Eva) Bukowski, and many nieces and nephews. Dear friends who stayed close to her in the years include Leigh Steiner, Dee Showalter, and Mary Wainwright, who served as her caregiver but was more a friend.

Judy had a long and wonderful career in the field of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. She earned her PhD in Speech Pathology and that led her to work at Shapiro Developmental Center, Assistant Director of Mental Health for the Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities, and as COO of the Hope Institute. Judy was known for her tireless work ethic, and her exceptional attention to detail. She was uncompromising when it came to the quality of care for persons with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities. As she retired she volunteered for CASA where she represented many youth. She had a great heart for animals (and her beloved Buddy), and donated generously to Helping Paws. She served on the ballet board in Springfield and supported Copper Coin Ballet. She believed that all children should have the opportunity to grow, and excel and supported the Hoogland Education Kids and Teens program.

She loved traveling and visited Italy, England, Canada, and Australia.

Judy was fiercely independent and those of us who were close to her were used to her telling us to “go” after we had visited and she was ready to move on to something else. We smiled at her tenaciousness even as her body began to fail.

Close to the end of her life, even though her relationship with the church had been tentative, we spoke that when she died she would be lifted into God’s loving arms. She cried…. Because she knew it to be true.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Helping Paws or the Hoogland Center Kids and Teens Programs.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.