Beloved Chelmsford Educator, Judith Anne Hersey, Passes Away at 84

Chelmsford, MA – Judith Anne (Tracy) Hersey, a beloved and dedicated educator, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was 84 years old.

Early Life and Education

Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, on April 30, 1940, Judith was the daughter of the late Francis J. and Margaret I. (McLaughlin) Tracy. She attended Saint Michael School in Lowell and graduated from Dracut High School in 1957.

Her yearbook caption aptly described her exceptional character: “Our most popular seniorette—everyone’s friend. Always dependable and cheerful, a terrific cheerleader… has personality plus and all the requirements of a good teacher.”

Judy went on to pursue her passion for education at Lowell State College (UMass Lowell), where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1961.

Teaching Career

Judy’s teaching career spanned nearly five decades, leaving an unforgettable mark on countless students. For 30 years, she taught sixth grade at the Franco American School, where she was highly respected and admired.

Her students fondly recall her engaging teaching methods, sense of humor, and unwavering belief in their abilities. She played a pivotal role in shaping their love of learning and inspiring them to reach their full potential.

Family and Personal Life

Judy was a devoted mother to her four children: Kathleen Logan, Tom Hersey, Lynne Ware, and Justine Hersey (May). She extended her maternal warmth to her six grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and a large extended family.

Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment she spent with them. She passed on her sense of humor, love of learning, the arts, and nature to the next generation.

Judy was a true people-person who made everyone she met feel loved and celebrated. Her unwavering kindness and compassion left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and the community she served.

Legacy of Service

Beyond her teaching career, Judy was deeply committed to giving back to her community. She volunteered her time to various organizations, including the Lowell Historical Society and the Mary Immaculate Nursing Home.

She was also a fervent supporter of the arts, attending countless performances and exhibitions at local venues. Judy’s passion for learning and cultural enrichment was evident throughout her life.

Memorial Information

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Judy’s memory to the Lowell General Cancer Center at https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/giving/give-lowell-general-hospital or by mailing checks to Tufts Medical Center, Development Office, 800 Washington St., #231, Boston, MA 02111.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, May 27, from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Blake Chelmsford Funeral Home, 24 Worthen St., Chelmsford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 9 am at St. Mary’s Parish, 25 North Rd., Chelmsford. Interment will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Tewksbury.