WILMINGTON — Judith Elizabeth Hofer Hersey died January 30, 2026, in Wilmington, NC, following a long illness. Judy was born on December 16, 1936, in Plainfield, NJ, and grew up in Metuchen, NJ.
She was predeceased by her husband, Peter Hersey; her daughter, Elizabeth Hersey Hatch; her parents, Dr. Clarence J.M. Hofer and Gladys Giesselmann Hofer; her brother, John Hofer; and her sister-in-law, Nancy Paulson.
She is survived by her children, Peter Hersey Jr. and Laura D’Aiello; her grandchildren, Emily Lockamy (Tyler), Benjamin Hatch (MJ), and Mary Grace D’Aiello; and her great-grandchildren, Cody and Casey Lockamy and Nils and Abigail Hatch. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Kathleen Hofer; her son-in-law, David Hatch (Donna); and her nephews, Nils and Eric Paulson and their families; and Trip, Nick, and Christian Hofer and their families.
Judy attended Dana Hall School, studied at Connecticut College, and graduated from Regis College. She married Peter Hersey on August 25, 1956. They began their married life in Arlington, VA, while Peter fulfilled his Navy ROTC commitment in Washington, D.C., serving in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1958. Over the years, Judy and Peter lived in Needham, MA; South Pasadena, CA; Dover, MA; and Kennebunk, ME, building a life and raising their family. They were part of the Dover Couples Club and treasured the friendships that grew from it.
Following the death of her husband, Judy moved to Wilmington, NC, to be with her granddaughter Emily, her husband Tyler, and their two children, where she made countless memories and offered endless love and support.
Judy will be remembered for her generosity, intellect, quick wit, and compassion. She was deeply devoted to her family, whom she loved fiercely, and she found great joy in her friendships. An avid reader, Judy especially loved her book club and the conversations it sparked.
While living in Maine, Judy delighted in welcoming friends and family to her home across from the beach, hosting many memorable dinner parties filled with delicious food and much laughter. She also enjoyed being part of the local garden community and her church. Even in the face of some of life’s greatest challenges, Judy showed remarkable strength and resolve, always showing up to care for others.
Steadfast, clear-eyed, and thoughtful, with impeccable dry humor, Judy was also a wonderful listener whose care and attention made people feel truly heard and cherished.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Church of the Servant in Wilmington, NC.
A service honoring Judy’s life will be held on February 14 at 11:00 a.m. at Brightmore of Wilmington, 2324 South 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403. Guests are invited to wear navy blue, Judy’s favorite color, as a tribute to her.
