Judith Holt Ryan, 81

Judith Holt Ryan, age 81, passed away October 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born November 12, 1943, in Marlborough as the daughter of Ernest and Rita Holt.

Judy was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Richard Ryan, former fire chief of Acton and her brother James Holt of Marlborough.

Judy is survived by her daughter Tania Gordon (David) of Cleveland; two sons Aaron Stern (Rachele) of Natick and Yuri Stern (Eliza) of Sudbury; and six grandchildren Callie, Jack, Ruby, Belle, Sabine, and Addie. Judy is also survived by two sisters Mary Saltus (Lloyd) of Sudbury and Patricia Cumming (Edward) of Northborough.

Judy adored her grandchildren, and they adored their Memere, who hosted countless sleepovers, never said no to sweets, and gave the very best hugs.

Judy spent many enjoyable summers with her family in Brewster, where she raced her Sunfish sailboat and loved spending time on the water, and later Owls Head, Maine, where she spent time antiquing and never missed the annual Lobster Fest. She delighted in hosting family events, designing her home in Acton for such occasions.

The family wishes to thank Orchard Hill Assisted Living in Sudbury for providing Judy a wonderful last 10 months of her life.

Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Wednesday, October 29, from 5-7:30 p.m. at Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford Street, Acton Center. Judy’s funeral service will be held in Dee Funeral Home on Thursday, October 30, at 11 a.m., followed by burial at St. Bernard’s Cemetery in Acton.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Judy’s memory to the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest, formerly Marlborough Boys’ Club, founded in 1944 by Judy’s paternal grandfather Ernest J. Holt: Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest, 169 Pleasant Street, Marlborough, MA 01752.

Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Acton. To share a remembrance or to offer a condolence on Judy’s tribute page, visit DeeFuneralHome.com.