Judith “Judy” Chapman Hettinger passed away peacefully on Nov. 3, 2025.
Born on Aug. 23, 1933, in Salem, Judy spent her childhood in nearby Marblehead with her loving parents, Harry and Ruth Chapman. She attended Marblehead High School, where she proudly served as head majorette for the school band — one of her fondest memories.
After graduating, Judy attended a two-year college in Maine. She worked in Boston before marrying her high school sweetheart, Louis Hettinger. As a devoted military wife, she became the steady heart of the family — managing frequent moves, every three-to-four years, along with managing the household and supporting her husband. Judy maintained a warm and welcoming home, ensuring her children thrived through the demands of military life.
Her first marriage was not permanent. After the separation, Judy met a wonderful man, Bob Wallace, who loved her from the moment they met. He enriched her life with travels and adventures, and later cared for her with unwavering devotion as her health declined.
Judy’s greatest passion was people — her family, her friends, and her community. She loved gathering others around her table, especially when baking something special to share. Later in life, she brought compassion and strength to her work with Alzheimer’s Association, supporting families facing some of their most challenging moments.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Harry Chapman.
She is survived by her beloved partner, Robert Wallace; her brother, Robert Chapman; and her three children Debra Labuskes ( Bernie Labuskes) David Hettinger (Laura Hettinger) and Robert Hettinger (Darline Hettinger) as well as her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Celebration of life will be held at the Reston Community Center in Reston, Virginia, on Friday Jan. 30, 6-8 p.m.
