Obituary of Judith Velho - Baker

Judith Velho-Baker died peacefully while surrounded by family on Sunday, August 7, 2016 in Morristown, NJ at the age of 71. Judy is survived by her daughters, Allison Baker of Philadelphia, PA, Carrie and her husband Scott Neigel of Branchburg, NJ, her grandchildren, Nate and Henry Neigel, her brother and his family, David, Kathy, and Erika Velho of Bethlehem, PA, Paul Velho of Westchester, PA and Gregory Velho of Orlando, FL. Judy was born on June 22, 1945 in New York to Allen and Jane Velho. She was raised in Brazil and Argentina before returning to Scarsdale, New York to finish high school. She graduated from Wheelock College in 1968 with a degree in elementary education. Judy taught at various army bases both home and abroad before settling in New Jersey where she raised her daughters. A tenured and beloved elementary school teacher, Judy spent the majority of her career in the Maplewood-South Orange Public School system before her retirement in 2007. Judy's work with children brought her great joy and her students adored and admired her year after year. A most gracious hostess, Judy loved entertaining her family and her friends at her home in Basking Ridge. A beloved member of several bridge groups, Judy's presence will be dearly missed. She treasured her time celebrating birthdays, holidays, and special occasions of the countless people who loved her. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 10, 2016, at Gallaway and Crane Funeral Home, 101 South Finley Ave, Basking Ridge, NJ, from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 11, 2016, 11:00 am at The Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church, Oak Street, Basking Ridge, NJ. Burial will be private for the family. In lieu of flowers and in honor of her two cherished dogs, Sammy and Bailey, please send donations to Creature Comfort Pet Therapy at P.O. Box 872, Morris Plains, NJ 07950 or The Michael J. Fox Foundation.