Judith Dempsey Hook, of Delaware, Ohio, peacefully transcended this universe to eternity on November 17, 2021 near Sanibel Island, Florida, where she made her winter home. Judith was 68 and had just celebrated her 38th wedding anniversary and become a great-grandmother.

Her passing came after a valiant battle with an extensive illness. Judith faced this foe the same way that she lived her entire life; with grace, fearlessness, and infinite gratitude. She fought courageously, never allowing the disease to take her focus off of loving and caring for others. Her strength and positive nature were remarkable and those closest to her will forever be in awe of the way that she faced this most difficult time, while never voicing a single complaint.

Judith was one of six children and the youngest of five daughters born to Naomi and John Dempsey in Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Bishop Watterson High School and The Ohio State University. She was a distinguished business leader and intrepid investor who served on the board of directors of Greif, Inc. for 18 years. She was an ardent philanthropist who passionately supported the Columbus Zoo, Recreation Unlimited, Riverside Methodist Hospital, and a multitude of additional charities through the All Life Foundation, a Dempsey family endeavor. She also served on the board of one of the largest homeless shelters in Columbus, Faith Mission, for 9 years, spending 3 years as Chairman.

Often described as an angel on Earth by others, Judith blessed everyone she met with extraordinary kindness, a warm demeanor, and a radiant smile. Anyone who knew her, knew that she was a devoted lover of all animals, and was usually surrounded by her four dogs and two cats. She also loved entertaining and was a consummate host: she always made certain that everyone’s needs were met and that her own special touches were integrated into all gatherings with friends and family. Through her generosity and ability to find love everywhere, Judith touched many lives and will forever be remembered and missed by all who knew her.

Judith was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Maureen Kendall; and brother, Michael Dempsey.

Surviving to hold Judith in their hearts are son, Nicholas Petitti; husband, Frank Hook; daughters, Kim (Robert) French, Joni (Edward) Lavelle, Laura (Michael) Bean, and Kari (Kirk Price) Hook; sisters, Virginia Ragan, Patricia Dempsey, and Mary McAlpin; and sister-in-law, Shannon (Steven) Diener. Judith was a loving grandmother to five grandchildren, Taylor (Curtis) Chapin, Haylee (Matthew) Row, Kayla (Ryan) Stiers, Austin Bean, Lily Bean. She is also survived by namesake great-granddaughter, Emery Jude Stiers, as well as many nieces and nephews and treasured long-time associate, David Benson, who was considered family.

Christmas was always Judith’s favorite time of year. A Christmas themed Celebration Of Life will be held on Sunday, December 19th 4pm at 1570 Polaris Pkwy, Columbus, OH. Kindly RSVP to attend in person Celebration Of Life by December 11th. Visit “everloved.com/life-of/Judith… to RSVP, share photos and memories, or attend virtually.

In following Judith’s generous spirit, the family requests donations in lieu of flowers to the Judith D. Hook Cancer Care Patient Navigation Endowment Fund. C/o Ohio Health Foundation, 3430 Ohio Health Parkway, Columbus, Ohio 43202.

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