Obituary: Judith Susan Baker

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.

Judith Susan Baker

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Judith Susan Baker, age 79, of Joliet, Illinois, formerly of Westfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at Spring Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Joliet. She was born on January 22, 1947, in Milford, Connecticut, to the late Frances and Harriet (Ritchel) Shepard.

Born in Milford, Judith was the youngest of seven children. As a young adult, she made her home in Massachusetts, where she raised her children and embraced life with warmth, generosity, and joy. Her home was always open to the neighborhood kids, who knew they would always find laughter, acceptance, and a welcoming place to gather.

In December 2023, after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Judith moved to Joliet to be closer to her son, Jason, who lovingly cared for her alongside the compassionate staff at Spring Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. During her time there, she became a favorite among residents and caregivers alike. The family is deeply grateful for the kindness, love, and companionship shown to Judith by the many caregivers who shared heartfelt stories and treasured memories of their time with her. The family also extends sincere appreciation to the staff of Lightways Hospice & Serious Illness Care for their compassionate support.

Judi was a devoted mother and an adoring grandmother. Her grandchildren were truly the light of her life, and nothing brought her greater happiness than spending time with them. She found joy in family gatherings, camping trips, and being outdoors, where she felt most at peace.

She is survived by her loving children, Joseph (Deborah) Baker of Russell, Massachusetts; Jason (Lisa) Baker of Joliet, Illinois; and Amy Ellinger of Huntington, Massachusetts. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Nathan, Kaleb, Jaiden, Anthony, Gabriel, Raina, Beverly, and Robert; her brother, John Shepard of The Villages, Florida; her sister, Natalie Kemp of Milford, Connecticut; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Francis and Kennith Shepard; and her sisters, Elaine Kemp and Beverly Humprey.

In accordance with Judith's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. She requested that her children scatter her ashes in the places she loved most, allowing her to become one with the outdoors and find eternal peace in the natural beauty of the East Coast.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of Fred C. Dames Funeral Home in Joliet, Illinois.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.

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