Judith Ann Minkin of Plano, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 14. Judith, known as Judy, was born to Milo and Louise (Dolly) Minkin in Kansas City, Missouri, on Jan. 24, 1937.
Judy leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, adventure and independence. Her legacy of service to others began at the tender age of five, when her passion for giving back was sparked as she collected funds for March of Dimes in her neighborhood. This giving spirit inspired her to study social work and live a life based on service to others.
While attending Texas State College for Women, now known as Texas Women’s University, Judy became a force for change, serving as the president of her junior class and advocating for the college's name change. We are thankful for her advocacy as she was vocal in including “Women” in the name vs. “Ladies.” After graduating, her dedication to social work led her to the Dallas County Juvenile Department where she served as an assistant probation officer, driven by her desire to make a difference in young lives.
Judy's pursuit of knowledge and service took her to the New York School of Social Work, now Columbia University, where she earned her graduate social work degree through scholarships and hard work. She returned to Dallas, Texas, where she built a life and career at Jewish Family Service for 38 years before retiring in 2000.
In addition, Judy was a dedicated U.S. Navy reservist where she served one weekend every month for 35 years, embodying the spirit of service in all aspects of her life.
Judy's love for the arts and community led her to volunteer at the Plano Symphony Eisman Center and the Legacy WillowBend. Even in retirement, she continued to serve as an usher at the American Airlines Center and Pizza Hut Park, sharing her warmth and kindness with everyone she met.
Her adventurous spirit knew no bounds, from traveling during her time in the Navy to journeys across Korea, Japan, Spain, England and California. Judy's philanthropic endeavors took her around the world, from the Cook Islands to Spain and Tanzania, where she volunteered to improve the lives of mothers and children. A life-long learner, Judy traveled to China with Georgia Tech, Chili to study Spanish, and the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Australia and New Zealand to explore new cultures.
Judy was predeceased by her parents, Milo and Louise Minkin. She is survived by her brother Phillip Minkin; cousins Jerry and Lenora Levin, Carol, Kevin, Blake and Cami Margolis, and Debbie, Jeffrey and Michael Tenenbaum; and cherished friends, Lori Sarathy and Alex Sarathy.
The family is grateful for the friendship and support she received living at the Legacy WillowBend, where a memorial service will be held on June 27.
Donations to honor Judy may be made to Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas or the charity of your choice.
Judy's spirit of generosity, dedication and service will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.
