LACONIA ---- Judith Nelson, 88, of Laconia, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
She was born on April 30, 1936, in Lakeport, New Hampshire, to Andrew W. Nelson II and Doris J. Milliken.
Judy, as she was known to most, came from a large and loving family with six siblings: brothers Peter, Stephen Eric, and Bruce, and sisters Susanna, Dorothy, and Sarah. Judy held fond memories of her childhood spent on Paugus Bay in Lakeport, New Hampshire, in an area known as "Little Canada."
Judy wed Richard F. Fugere, and together they raised two children: Kelly (Fugere) McAdam, of Fort Myers, Florida, and Jarna Fugere, of Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
A graduate of Laconia High School in 1955, Judy enjoyed a fulfilling career spanning over 30 years in real estate sales and mortgage lending. She achieved many firsts as a woman in her field: President of the Lakes Region Board of Realtors, Realtor of the Year, Small Business Administrator Underwriter, and Vice President of a development company.
Judy had a wide range of hobbies. She enjoyed studying astrology, consuming mysteries, recipe collecting, coloring, and birdwatching from the birdhouses she maintained. Her keen eye for interior design also inspired countless makeovers over the years. Her love was expressed through food, heartfelt hugs, and unwavering trust, which she lavished on those close to her—especially her three grandchildren: Casey Jin, Dylan McAdam, and Halle McAdam.
In addition to being a mother and grandmother, Judy was a beloved aunt to numerous nieces and nephews, who could always count on a warm welcome at Aunt Judy’s. She was a loyal and generous friend, maintaining lifelong relationships and offering unwavering support, an open door, and—when necessary—some hard truths. Once you were fortunate enough to be in her orbit, you were safe and loved.
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to the strong matriarch and rock of our family. She will be remembered as a remarkable woman, and celebrated for her strength, warmth, sharp wit, and sparkling blue eyes. We take comfort in knowing she lived a full and happy life on her own terms, with a quiet dignity that will never be forgotten.
Judith is survived by her daughters Kelly J. McAdam, of Fort Myers, FL, and Jara Fugere, of Glasgow, Scotland; brother Stephen Eric Nelson, of White River Junction, VT; sister Dorothy Duffy, of Laconia, NH; grandchildren. Casey Jin, Dylan McAdam, and Halle McAdam; and 3 nieces and 6 nephews. In addition to her parents, Judith is predeceased by her brothers Peter Nelson and Bruce Nelson, and sisters Susanna Laurier and Sarah Barber.
A celebration of life and burial will be held in the spring of 2025.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.