Judith R. Thaler

She was born in Altoona, daughter of Frances and Louis Burrows.

Surviving is her brother, David; her children: Amy, Eric (Lynnette), Bruce (Phyllis) and Michael (Sharon); 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and her loyal caregiver, Tasha Jones.

Judy’s childhood was filled with piano, sled riding and reading. After graduating from Altoona Area High School in 1951, she served as an executive secretary at U.S. Steel in Pittsburgh. In 1971, she moved to Virginia, initially working at the Chrysler Museum before launching a successful real estate career in Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads. Her detail-oriented, perfectionist nature fueled her passion for taking care of her real estate clients, earning her a spot in the Million Dollar Roundtable for many years.

An avid reader, Judy loved reading to children in schools and churches. She also enjoyed playing the piano, attending the symphony and opera, watching movies, reading books, cooking and doing puzzles. Driven by a commitment to serving others, she was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Hampton Roads and a board member of the Young Audiences Arts for Learning.

Judy’s greatest joy was spending time with her family. She looked forward to Thanksgiving each year, which she celebrated with her entire family at their cottage along the Juniata River in Newton Hamilton. To her family and community, Judy was an inspiration. She encouraged others to “make it a great day,” often reminding them that “God made you important.”

At Judy’s request, there will be no funeral service. The family will schedule a Celebration of Life with information to follow.

Memorial donations can be made to Arts For Learning, 420 N. Center Drive, #239, Norfolk, Virginia 23502.