Judith Carol Doremus Levy, lovingly known as Judy, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Canandaigua, New York, surrounded by her devoted family. She was 88. Judy lived a life marked by creativity, resilience, kindness, and an unwavering love for her family and friends.
Born the eldest daughter of George and Pauline Doremus, Judy was raised in Maywood, New Jersey. Her father, a mechanical engineer, contributed to the design of power plants and dams during World War II, while her mother was a dedicated nurse. Judy’s family legacy of service runs deep—her paternal grandfather’s World War I service was honored by the naming of the Hackensack VFW chapter.
A graduate of Bogota High School, Judy earned her B.A. in English from the University of Rochester in 1958. She began her career as a copywriter at J. Walter Thompson in New York City, where her sharp wit and creative mind flourished. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Thomas Gordon Levy, a former U.S. Navy officer. The couple settled in Pittsford, New York, where Tom worked in Public Relations for Kodak, and together they raised two daughters.
Judy and Tom gave their daughters a wonderful childhood filled with fun, laughter, and love. Their home was always a welcoming place, full of warmth and joy—there were always drinks and snacks to share, and the backyard pool was a favorite gathering spot for family and friends alike. Judy’s gift for hospitality and her lighthearted spirit created a home where everyone felt included and cared for.
Judy brought her imaginative energy to all areas of her life. She was active in her garden club, supported Girl Scouting, contributed to instructional material design for Pittsford Schools, and enjoyed needlepoint and a variety of creative crafts. She did everything with humor and heart. She and Tom shared a deep love of travel, especially cruising the world together, their neighborhood bridge club, and were united in their appreciation for classic cinema.
Judy was predeceased by her beloved husband, Tom. She is survived by her sister Joan (William) Eisner of Arlington, Virginia; her daughters Laura (Charles) Andolino of Bloomfield, New York, and Cynthia (Michael) Howell of Wilmington, North Carolina; and five grandchildren: Joseph, Christopher (Abbigail), and Danielle Andolino; and Marissa (Sam) Howell Haywood and Cody (Chalee) Howell. Judy also leaves behind two cherished great-grandchildren, Molly and Noah Andolino.
A memorial service celebrating Judy’s life will be held on Sunday, August 3rd, will begin at 1:00 pm at White Haven Memorial Pak All Seasons Chapel 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford with a reception following the conclusion of the service
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Light Hill (Canandaigua Comfort Care Home, Inc. 5160 Parrish Street Ext., Canandaigua, NY 14424) at lighthillhome.org
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Judy will be remembered as a woman of deep wisdom and gentle strength. She always had a kind word and a smile to share, and her grace, humility, and boundless love for her family left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.
