Judith Anne Bunker (Mrs. Rev. Raymond Otto) passed peacefully into the arms of Christ on April 14th , 2026. Born on February 8, 1939 to Jane and Herbert Bunker, Judith was raised in San Francisco, California and attended high school in Rome, where she made lifelong friends who she kept in close touch with over the years. Judith was an avid writer of letters which helped keep her remain connected with friends and loved ones scattered across the globe.

Judith’s faith in God was central in her life, leading her to join a convent as a young adult. After 10 years as a nun, Judith left the convent in pursuit of higher education and with a passion to contribute to the world in a broader way. Judith became a professor of English literature at the University of California Davis and later at Southeast Missouri Statue University. Judith served as the President of the League of Women Voters in Southeast Missouri and was a founding member of the first domestic violence shelter in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Later, she served as Director of Disaster Relief for Lutheran Social Services Florida.

Judith was introduced to her future husband, Rev. Raymond Otto through mutual friends. Judith and Ray often shared the story of how they went to dinner- a blind date- and talked into the wee hours of the morning. They discussed many topics including the importance of inter-faith collaboration between Catholic and Lutheran denominations. It was a match truly made in heaven.

Following their marriage, Judith gave birth to their son, Nathan Bunker-Otto, and served as loving mother to Ray’s daughters, Jill and Aurora (Rachel) Otto. Judith created a warm and safe environment for her family, always listening intently to concerns shared, and cheering her children on through challenges and successes in life. Judith leaves behind a legacy of advocating for women’s rights and providing a listening ear for all who sought her counsel.

Judith is survived by her son Nathan, who served as her full-time caregiver in her later years, and her daughters Aurora and Jill. Judith also leaves behind five grandchildren- Lynn Otto, Jacob Burnett, Jordan Francis, Blake Bryant and Becca Francis- and countless friends she made during her lifetime.

Judith passed away on Ray’s birthday, and her loved ones believe this is confirmation that Ray was waiting to welcome her into heaven where he preceded her in 2024. Judith will be missed and remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/judith-bunker/obituary/

Copy