Judith A. Rooney's Obituary
Judith Ann Rooney, of Jupiter, FL and Centennial, CO, went peacefully on April 6, 2023, at the age of 85. Judy was born in West Palm Beach in 1938, to Grace and Clifford Fleischer, their 2nd child of 5. Known as Sister Stephanie during her time at the Benedictine Convent of the Sacred Heart in Alabama, Judy went on to earn a Masters in Sociology from KU, where she met her husband Neil Rooney (deceased, 2011). The pair raised 3 children, with 6 healthy grandchildren, the oldest of which are now in college.
In addition to serving the needy via the convent, Judy often taught piano and guitar, later working as a juvenile justice educator, a counselor for disadvantaged college students, a Principal and Dean, and co-author of the book Charter Schools: Moving To the Next Level. In her retirement she was a continuous member and eventually President of the Rotary Club of Highlands Ranch, CO, participating in and organizing numerous charitable events and programs.
In her elder years Judy returned to Florida, where she resided with her long-time partner Ernie Tauck (surviving). She battled throat cancer and won, and was learning to live with early-stage Parkinson’s, prior to her peaceful passing. With her eldest daughter at her side, she went in her sleep. Preceded in death by her older brother Reverend Fred Fleischer, she is survived by her 2 younger sisters, PJ Turner and Bobbie Miller, and her children Stephanie, Neil and Brian.
Judy was known for her quick wit, charitable heart and sense of community, her worldly education and open mind. She always put others first, and never stopped dreaming of a better world. As a mother, wife, sister and daughter, counselor, teacher and friend, Judy was a light that touched many lives. Her loss is felt deeply, but her life was a blessing that bears heartfelt celebration.
Donations in Judy’s honor may be made to the Rotary of Highlands Ranch, CO. A Celebration of Life will be held at Jupiter First Church on Monday, April 17th at 12:30, at 1475 Indian Creek Pkwy, Jupiter, FL 33458.
A 2nd Memorial will be held in Highlands Ranch, CO, the following week, location TBD. Contact Brian Rooney for details, at 720-975-6829.. Judith will be missed by all that knew and loved her.
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