Judith Ann Sorbie - Dunn

Judy Sorbie Dunn, 93, passed away on July 22, 2025, in Aurora, Colorado after a full life dedicated to art, community and family. She was born on April 12, 1932 in Danville, Illinois, to Russell Duffin and Francis “Jack” Duffin. Judy was a talented dancer in her youth, but after contracting polio she could no longer pursue that dream. Instead, she turned her energy toward art, which became her lifelong passion.

In 1953, Judy graduated with honors from the University of Illinois with a Bachelors of Fine Arts. While in college she met her first husband, fellow artist John Sorbie. They moved to Fort Collins, Colorado in 1958 where they raised their two daughters. In 1988 Judy married G. Richard Dunn, with whom she shared many happy years.

A lifelong artist, Judy was best known as a portrait and landscape painter. In the 1960s, she taught part-time at Colorado State University. Judy also applied her talents at the City of Fort Collins and Colorado State University’s Atmospheric Science Department. At CSU she worked with Bill Gray, a world-renowned meteorologist, creating renderings, charts and graphics that supported groundbreaking research about hurricanes and tropical weather.

Judy was deeply committed to civic life. For over 50 years, beginning when she was a young mother, she was active with the League of Women Voters. She championed land-use planning, leading efforts to limit oversized signage and preserve Fort Collins’ charm. Later, with the healthcare team she designed an educational brochure that became key to the League’s advocacy. Judy was also a cherished member of her book club, a community she treasured for just as long. She was involved with the Lindenwood community organization and loved tending her extensive gardens, waiting each year for spring flowers to bloom.

In retirement, Judy continued to paint. When macular degeneration affected her sight, she shifted toward impressionistic styles, later focusing on vintage barns inspired by photos from road trips with Dick. Those who knew Judy remember her for her kindness, generosity, and creativity. She filled her life with friendships, activism, and art—and always shared her home with a beloved dog, usually a Borzoi (Russian Wolfhound).

Judy is survived by her daughters, Julie (Emmett) Roche and Amy (Max Lenaiski) Sorbie, her grandchildren Crystal and Brenna Sorbie, and her brother Russell Duffin. She is also survived by her stepchildren, Bryan Dunn, Jared Dunn, Karen Dunn-Bartlett and Patrick Dunn, and their 11 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband John Sorbie, her second husband G. Richard Dunn and stepson Michael Dunn.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at the Lindenwood picnic area, 1600 Lindenwood Dr., Fort Collins. All who knew and loved Judy are welcome to attend and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rocky Mountain PBS, reflecting Judy’s lifelong love of learning and community.