Judy Via

Judy Via, 76, died in Oxford, NC on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, after a long illness. She was born on March 18, 1948, in Delaware, Ohio, to William F. Via, Jr. and Dorothy O. Via.

After beginning her studies at Albion College, Judy graduated from the University of Connecticut and earned a Masters of Library Science from the University of Northern Arizona. She was a member of the Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Durham, NC, where she became a member of The River Tones, singing alto. Judy also enjoyed many years singing with the Choral Society of Durham and the OK Chorale. 

 She loved to sing whether it was alone or with others, spontaneously or organized, professionally or with anyone who could barely carry a tune. If someone had a desire to sing, count Judy in. Beyond her personal vocal exploits, she enjoyed live and recorded music with a great variety of interests ranging from Ravel to contemporary folk and rock musicians. One could often find her singing along with various artists knowing all the lyrics. 

 Judy was also a visual artist with an emphasis in watercolor painting. Holiday gifts to family often consisted of a painting by Judy accompanied by an occasional poem. She crafted her own note cards and even considered starting a small business. 

 Though Judy’s last years were a struggle, she loved being with close friends and family when she was well. Her smile and energetic disposition brightened many lives before her disease sapped her life. 

 Judy is survived by a sister, Sara Via of Ellicott City, Maryland; nephews Andrew Hawthorne of Austin, Texas and Nicholas Hawthorne of Baltimore, Maryland; and cousins Lee Summersand wife Janie of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Tim Summers and wife Jenny of Hickory, North Carolina, and Susan Summers Andrews and husband Tony of Surf City, North Carolina. Judy was preceded in death by her parents Dorothy O. Via and William F. Via, Jr., her aunt Nancy Via Summers and husbandFrank Summers, Jr. 

 A memorial service to celebrate Judy’s life will be held on December 7, 2:00PM, at Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4907 Garrett Rd, Durham, NC 27707. 

 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4907 Garrett Rd, Durham, NC 27707.