Judith Ellen (Durkin) Petit

WORCESTER - Judith Ellen (Durkin) Petit, 83, passed away peacefully in her family’s home on July 9, 2026, surrounded by family.

Judi leaves her daughters, Susan and Lauren, their families including grandchildren; Emily, Ben, Milo, and Clara; her sister Debbie and brothers Michael and Billy; along with many other family members and loved ones. Her husband Mike, her sisters Pat and Dinah, and niece Kassie all passed before her. Judi treasured the love of all her friends and family.

Judi was a devoted mother and was thoughtful and caring to all those around her. She worked as a special education teacher in West Boylston and was dedicated to her students. Judi was an avid reader and note taker. She was an excellent cook, often hosting friends and neighbors, and kept journals recording the likes, dislikes and recent meals served to all her guests to ensure that she didn’t repeat meals. She had a journal of the books she had read with notes about each. There was always a stack of paper in the kitchen that notes could be jotted on if needed. Judi also enjoyed gardening and filling her home with beautiful plants and flowers. Judi and Judy Lawrence put together the annual Harvest Craft Fair at the First Church in Sterling where many people in town bought treasured crafts.

Judi and Mike enjoyed travels near and far. Annual stays at Lake Willoughby, frequent trips to Block Island and travels to the Caribbean and Europe with their favorite travel buddies Arnold and Izola brought them joy.

Judi was born in Worcester, spent decades in Sterling, then moved to Lancaster and finally back to Worcester at the Willows. Her last year was spent in the Willows Health Center. The family thanks all the Willows and Health Center staff, especially Sophie and and Lynn, for their wonderful care for our mom. Thanks to the nurses at Care Central VNA and Hospice, especially Whitney, for all of their care and assistance in making her last days at home comfortable.

Family and friends will gather to honor Judi’s memory at Calling Hours from 5:00 – 8:00 PM on Thursday, July 16th at Miles-Sterling Funeral & Tribute Center, 100 Worcester, Road, Sterling.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations may be made to St. John’s Food for the Poor.