Obituary of Judy McGrath

Judith Ann “Judy” McGrath née Waldner was born August 26, 1936 and passed away surrounded by loved ones on October 26, 2024 following a short illness.

Not many people will claim a life as rich as Judy McGrath’s. Born in Eureka, California she grew up among the redwoods. A majorette in the high school band and driving a red MG, Judy could have followed the path of a classic American girl. Instead, she met John McGrath, a fisherman from Newfoundland, and began a romance that would span three oceans and more than fifty years.

They began their family on a boat off Vancouver Island, eventually moving with their first three children to Newfoundland. They went on to grow their family before the adventuresome pair moved with five children to Taloyoak, Nunavut in 1971. The stark beauty of this remote part of Canada was matched only by the grace and compassion of the people who embraced Judy and her family. That community and time in her life held a special place in Judy’s heart.

Judy was a key member of the arts communities in Nunavut, and then later in Labrador where the family moved in the late 70s. Judy and John eventually settled in Pakenham, Ontario, where Judy continued to share her twin passions for creativity and family. She lived in Pakenham for thirty years, building her garden into a local landmark. Judy was an artist, photographer, published author and seamstress. Her involvement in local arts events, like the Maple Run Studio Tour and Pakenham Horticultural Society highlighted her commitment to fostering creativity and beauty in her community.

Judy’s travels took her all over the world and she often combined her love of travel with her passion for genealogy research. Judy proudly travelled with her children and grandchildren returning many times to her previous homes in Northern California, Newfoundland and Nunavut. She also shared new adventures with them such as watching Broadway shows in New York City, riding in a helicopter over Hawaii, golfing in St. Andrews and touring a botanical garden in the Swiss Alps. All of Judy’s many destinations added to her colourful story and furthered her love of history, art and nature.

Above all, Judy was a dedicated family member and friend, always providing unwavering support and encouragement to the people that she loved and cherished. Many people, near and far, share in this profound loss.

Beloved wife of the late John McGrath. Loving mother of Lani Holland (Andrew), Janet Tamalik McGrath (Peter Harris), Sean McGrath (Lori), Karla McGrath and Noah Nashaooraitook. Predeceased by son, Seumas. Adored grandmother of Kathleen May-Jun, Seumas, Michael-James, Jacquelyn, Oskar, Sydney-Jane, Finn and great-grandmother of Penelope and Tala. Loved sister of Joan Creighton, Janet Hogan and James Waldner (deceased).

The family expresses their extreme gratitude to the wonderful nursing staff at Almonte General Hospital.

A Celebration of Judy’s life and legacy will be held at the Pilon Family Funeral Home, 50 John Street N, Arnprior, Ontario on Saturday morning, November 30, 2024, at 11 o’clock. Light lunch to follow. The service will be webcast live for those unable to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to https://www.gofundme.com/f/judy-mcgrath to help the McGrath family purchase and ship school supplies and sports equipment to the children of Taloyoak, Nunavut in Judy’s memory.