Judith Rae Arnold née Gayk

December 16, 1940 – June 29, 2025

Judith Rae Arnold née Gayk, age 84, of Canandaigua, New York, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Brian Craig Arnold; her parents, George F. Gayk and Hilda M. Gayk; and her brother, George Gayk Jr. Judith is survived by her children: Craig (Belinda) Arnold, Devin (Hannelore) Arnold, and Laura Beth (Patrick) McAlpin. She is also survived by her siblings: Lynda (Ronald) Foti, Donald (Linda) Gayk, and Julie (Albert) Choate. She was the very proud and loving grandmother of Ian Matthew, Isabelle Caitlin, Aidan Tristan, Hudson Andrew, Seneca Clayton, Gloria Rae, Silas William and Jack Corwin. In addition, she was a caring Aunt to several amazing nieces and nephews, as well as a fondly remembered cousin.

Born on December 16, 1940, in Rochester, New York, Judith was a cherished daughter of George and Hilda. She grew up in Rochester, where a chance high school merger led her to meet the love of her life, Brian Arnold.

In 1961, after a brief stint as a clerk in the insurance industry, she began her professional career as a secretary. Brian and Judy were married on September 8th, 1962 and shared 51 wonderful years together.

Judith and Brian's early life together was filled with many adventures while they lived in Delaware, Michigan and Colorado. While in Colorado, Judith worked as a secretary in the Physics department at Colorado State University, while Brian completed his PhD in industrial psychology. Colorado held a special place in Judith's heart. The beautiful mountain scenery brought her immense joy, despite Judith's well known aversion to snow. Judith and Brian returned to New York in 1968 and lived in Henrietta until March 1973. They moved into their new house in Victor, New York on April 1, 1973. Judith raised her three children in Victor, and took immense pride in making her house a home adorned with wood paneling and wallpapered walls set in a private, garden-like setting overlooking Raccoon Run.

Judith returned to her professional career in 1986 as a receptionist at Trimatek in Fishers New York. She joined Rospatch Electronic Systems Division (RESD) in 1988 as a receptionist which later became Flightline Electronics in 1989. The CFO quickly recognized Judith's talents far exceeded her current role and recruited her to serve as his executive administrative assistant. Judith worked for the CFO until his retirement and then served as an executive administrative assistant for other executives until her retirement. In each of her positions, Judith's work ethic, integrity, commitment and meticulous attention to detail were deeply respected by all of her coworkers.

In her spare time, Judith poured her creative energy and affection into designing and sewing beautiful clothes and elaborate costumes for her grandchildren. Judith loved gardening and creating personalized notes and care packages for her loved ones. Cooking was Judiths love language. She expressed her affection through the sumptuous meals she prepared ensuring everyone who visited her home felt welcomed with her delicious food.

Judith also was a devoted sports fan who enjoyed tennis and fostered a real passion for football. She was an avid Buffalo Bills fan unless they were playing against the San Francisco 49ers and her all-time favorite player, Joe Montana.

Over the years, Judith enjoyed many cherished pet poodles and Italian greyhounds. Her most recent companion was her beloved pup, Pita, whom she loved dearly.

Above all, Judith will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family. She left a lasting impression on everyone who were privileged to know her. She will be dearly missed.

Judith's memory will be forever cherished by all of her loved ones.

Family will receive guests from 1:00 to 2:00 PM on Saturday July 12th at First Congregational Church, 58 North Main Street in Canandaigua. A celebration of life will begin at 2:30 PM with a lunch reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Lollipop Farms in Fairport NY or Light Hill hospice home of Canandaigua, NY.

To share a memory or express condolences online please visit www.fullerfh.com