Judith Lee Finch Hurst

Judith Lee Finch Hurst, 76, of Hertford, NC, passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, February 18, 2014 surrounded by her husband and children after a courageous battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). Born in Marietta, OH in 1937, she was the daughter of the late G. Fergus and Ruth Twigg Finch. In 1957, Judy married her childhood sweetheart, Donald Hurst, and graduated from Ohio University in 1959 with a degree in Elementary Education. Due to Don's career, they relocated nine times throughout the states including Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Georgia. They lived in Manassas, VA for 12 years before retiring to Hertford in 2000. Throughout the years, Judy held various teaching positions and was always active in the local Methodist churches while remaining dedicated to what she considered to be her primary job, raising her five children. Judy was always very giving of her time to help others. A long-time active member of Hertford United Methodist Church, she volunteered in various roles including Co-Chair of the Mary Martha Circle, served as a Stephen Minister, was one of the originators of the Sojourners Sunday School Class, and served at the Open Door Pantry. Other memberships enjoyed included the Trinity Bell Chime Choir and the Albemarle Plantation Ladies Club. Judy was described as always willing to help without ever needing a title or position. She was active in the community, was a mentor with the Perquimans Middle School, and was also a very active bridge player. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she is survived by her husband of 56 years, Donald Hurst; five children, Bryan Hurst and wife Marilou of Salisbury, MD, Susan Jones and husband Mark of Pasadena, MD, Karen Triolo and husband Bill of Bear, DE, Lisa Park and husband Joe of Waldorf, MD, and Julie Logan and husband Stuart of Leesburg, VA; a brother, David Finch and wife Shirley of Parkersburg, WV; 14 grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. in Hertford United Methodist Church officiated by the Reverend Larry Bowden and Chaplain Corbin Cherry. Friends may join the family in the social hall of the church immediately following the service. Miller & Van Essendelft, Funeral and Cremation Providers, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her memory may be made to Hertford United Methodist Church, 200 Dobbs Street, Hertford, NC 27944. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.