Judith “Judy” Ord Patrizzi of Windermere, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, surrounded by Gene, her husband and soulmate of 64 years and her daughters, Deb and Ann. 

Judy lived a thousand lives during her 87 years. From outstanding academic achievements to jet-setting across the globe, there was never, ever a dull moment in her vibrant life. 

Judy leaves behind an incredible legacy in the nursing field. She received her RN degree at Saint Agnes School of Nursing in Baltimore, MD. Upon heading west to California, she became Stanford University Hospital’s youngest head nurse at age 21. She went on to earn not one, but two master’s degrees in nursing and education, and soon after authored (on a typewriter no less) a textbook entitled, Emergency Nursing: A Case Study Approach. She spent several happy and fulfilling years at Saint Francis School of Nursing and Hospital in Hartford, CT, where she took on multiple leadership roles before reaching the pinnacle of her profession as the Director of Nursing & Health Careers at Capital Community College. 

Judy built this remarkable career at a time when leadership and success in the workforce were very much male-dominated. She was a strong and outspoken supporter of feminist causes and believed deeply that women should have every opportunity to pursue their ambitions and succeed on their own merits. Judy was living proof that women can do it all. 

Judy’s greatest joy in life was her close-knit family, whom she loved fiercely. She was the matriarch of her family, their biggest cheerleader, and their #1 supporter. She went from growing up at “417” in Westernport, MD and attending Saint Peter’s School with her beloved brothers and sisters, to meeting Gene, her Mr. Darcy and beginning their fairytale romance in Palo Alto, CA, to raising two beautiful daughters in Vernon, CT. After retiring to Central Florida, she relished spoiling her six wonderfully adventurous grandchildren. She never turned down a challenge. With steely determination, she even went skydiving with her grandson at the age of 85! 

Judy had a genuine passion for the arts, particularly opera, the symphony, and ballet; she was never one to pass up an opportunity to show off her own winning dance skills, most importantly with Gene, her favorite dance partner. Judy found great pleasure in traveling the world, especially exploring the streets of New York City with her two “FAS” sisters, family, and friends. Additionally, she enjoyed hiking, attending exercise classes, cheering on the UCONN women's basketball team, volunteering and playing the piano. Judy even created an original orchestral composition entitled, “Judy’s Dream.” 

Judy - lovingly known as “Nannie” to her grandchildren - had a particular talent for creating the most magical vacations for her family, whether it was “Nannie Camp,” sibling reunions, family cruises, or holiday celebrations. She helped mastermind elaborate scavenger hunts with Granddad, her “partner in crime,” invented the “secret room,” kept bottomless pots of vegetable soup and bean soup simmering on the stove, baked the most delicious assortment of pies, and stocked the cookie jars with “S-Cookies” and “Megnuts.” Every Christmas, she brought her family together for a week of laughter, traditions, and treasured moments we’ll carry with us forever. 

She had an extraordinary gift for creating a special bond with every person she cared about, making each of us feel uniquely loved and cherished. Her life was something straight out of a storybook, and her journey with Gene was an inspiration to all who crossed their path. Our lives will forever be altered without her radiant smile, compassionate heart, indelible strength, chic & elegant style, incredible storytelling about “6 Kids Who Loved Adventure,” and her signature blueberry pie. Judy’s spirit, legacy & gusto for life will live on through her love of music and the adventures & memories she created with those she held dear. 

Judy, Mom, Nannie - We will always love you “from the short cut clear up to the grass!” 

Judy is survived by her loving husband, Gene Patrizzi; her daughter, Debbie Reason and her husband, Jan; daughter Ann Marotta and her husband, Joe; her six cherished grandchildren, Madeline, Andrew, Matt, Nick, Belle, and Abby; sister Rose Dougherty and her husband, Bob; brother George Ord and his wife, Lavonne; sister Sarah “Shah” Ord; brother Mike Ord and his wife, Betty; sister-in-law Carm Patrizzi. She is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Mary Ord of Westernport, MD. 

In keeping with her wishes, Judy will be cremated and there will be no funeral or memorial service. A celebration of her life with immediate family will be held at a later date. We appreciate all the love and support of friends and loved ones during this time. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider donating in her memory to Opera Orlando, an organization that held a special place in her heart: Opera Orlando Donations