Judith Jatinen Bishop

Judith Jatinen Bishop passed away on August 9, 2023 in Williamsburg, Virginia after a difficult battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Judy was born on November 7, 1940 in Boston, Massachusetts and grew up in Wayne, New Jersey. She was preceded in death by her husband John after 52 years of marriage. She is survived by her daughter Jennifer Parish (James), son David (Jennifer) and her two grandchildren Madeline and Nathaniel. She is also survived by her brother David Jatinen, sisters Denise Jackson and Ellen Borseth and their extended families.

She graduated from Wayne Valley High School and then went on to Catholic University where she earned a degree in English and played college basketball. Judy worked at the Central Intelligence Agency where she met John. After getting married they travelled the world with their children. She continued to work for the Agency at times throughout her life including while they were stationed in East Germany. It was as a result of her work there that she received the Intelligence Commendation Medal from the Agency.

Judy made friends wherever she travelled and hosted events for countless people throughout her lifetime, showing off some excellent cooking skills acquired around the world. In retirement, Judy continued to pursue her passion for bridge, birds, photography and travel. She and John spent many summers in the Canadian Maritimes and connected with old friends as they travelled. She also became an avid fan of UVA sports and enjoyed attending as many games as she could while spending time with her grandchildren.

She and John shared a love for animals that caused them to include dogs, cats and even a horse on their family moves. The animals brought her great joy, which ensured her children had the same passion for them. She was particularly proud of rescuing a baby raccoon she named Mowgli. She raised him in the house until he was ready to be released back to the wild, which was a wonderful reflection of her spirit.

Judy will be greatly missed by many. The family would like to thank all those who provided such good care for her at Williamsburg Landing and Gentiva Hospice throughout her struggle with dementia. A visitation with family will be held from 6pm to 8pm on Monday August 14th at Nelsen Funeral Home, Williamsburg, Virginia. A memorial service will take place on Tuesday August 15th at 11am also at Nelsen Funeral Home.

Judy’s ashes will be interred at Williamsburg Memorial Park at a later date.

Jennifer and David ask that in lieu of flowers, you remember their mother with a gift to the Memory Caregivers Fund at Williamsburg Landing. Donate online at www.williamsburglanding.org/giving or mail checks to 5700 Williamsburg Landing Drive, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185, attention Sally Wolfe.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com for the Bishop family.