Judy C. Hitchens

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Judy C. Hitchens, who left us on July 23, 2025, just one day before her 72nd birthday. Judy passed peacefully at her home in Bear, Delaware, surrounded by the love of her family. Judy was preceded in death by her father, Elmer Hicks; her mother, Kathleen Hicks; and her sister, Diane Zebroski. She is survived by her devoted husband of 41 years, Willis F. Hitchens, and her three children: Mark Thompson, partner of Casey Herman; Michael Thompson, husband of Megan Thompson; and daughter Katie Hitchens, partner of Chris Reid. A proud and loving grandmother, Judy cherished her time with her grandchildren: Preston, Sierra (wife of Issac Crane), Saige, Brooke, Khai, Meliah, Mikey, Mia, Arwyn, and Mason. She was overjoyed to recently learn she would soon become a great-grandmother to Sierra and Issac’s child. Judy was one of seven sisters and is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Louise Fransti, Sue Leske, Connie Stanley, Jackie Bramble, and Sherri Hicks. She was also a beloved sister-in-law to Bill Fransti, Fred Leske, Allan Stanley, Bobby Bramble, and Tom Connell. Throughout her life, Judy wore many hats. She was a talented ballroom dancer, a dedicated school bus driver for Hodgson Vo-Tech, a skilled accounts receivable manager, and a successful business owner. But above all, Judy found her greatest joy in creating a beautiful home and garden, spending time with her neighbors and loved ones, and cheering on her grandchildren at countless dance recitals and sporting events. Judy was the heart and soul of her family. She was a loving wife, an extraordinary mother and grandmother, a loyal sister, a trusted friend, and a kind neighbor. Her warmth, selflessness, and radiant spirit touched everyone who knew her. She was beautiful inside and out—genuine, generous, and endlessly caring. Judy will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. A viewing will be held Friday, August 1, 2025, from 2-3 PM at Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home, 635 Churchmans Rd., Newark, DE 19702 followed by a service in celebration of Judy’s life at 3 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the DE SPCA https://www.humaneanimalpartners.org/give or St Jude Children’s Hospital https://www.stjude.org. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com.

Judy C. Hitchens

July 24, 1953 - July 23, 2025

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