Helene Judith “Judy” Alson (née Tessler), age 76, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, in Lake Mary, Florida, from complications due to Alzheimer’s disease. Her passing marks the end of a long goodbye that spanned seven years, during which her family cherished many meaningful moments together.
Born on November 7, 1948, in Patterson, New Jersey, Judy grew up with a love for creativity and communication that would shape both her personal and professional life. She pursued her passion for fashion and media by earning an Associate’s degree in Fashion Communications from the Fashion Institute of Technology. After welcoming three children in just under three years, Judy returned to college with determination and earned her Bachelor's degree from Merrimack College—a testament to her resilience and commitment to personal growth.
Judy’s career was as dynamic as it was inspiring. She began in fashion advertising before briefly stepping into journalism as the town reporter for the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune, covering North Andover, Massachusetts. Her professional journey continued at Jordan Marsh, where she rose from salesperson to department manager. She later became a recruiter for Manpower Temporary Services and concluded her working years with ADP Retirement Services. In every role, Judy brought energy, intelligence, and a strong work ethic.
Judy is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Joel Alson. Together they built a life filled with love, family traditions, and shared adventures. She leaves behind their three children—Chari Alson, David Alson, and Scott Alson—and daughters-in-law Meghan Alson and Sandy Chang. Judy was incredibly proud of her six grandchildren: Natalie Maddren, Connor Alson, Zoe Maddren, Sophia Alson, Owen Alson, and Tyler Alson. She also leaves behind her brothers Harry Tessler and Jeffrey Tessler (Marsha Tessler), as well as her cousin Elaine Winic.
Though initially hesitant to leave their beloved home of 42 years in Salem, New Hampshire, in 2022, Judy and Joel embraced their move to a retirement community in Florida with grace—building new routines and friendships. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff and providers at Grand Living Park at Lake Mary (formerly Oakmonte Village) for their warmth and compassionate care as Judy transitioned into Memory Care and hospice.
With Joel always at her side, Judy found joy in attending plays, going to museums, and gathering with family. She especially loved the family’s regular outings to Ogunquit, Maine, and held a cherished subscription to the Lyric Stage Company in Boston. Proud of her New Hampshire residency, Judy volunteered for many years with the Salem Democrats. With Joel, she made phone calls and attended campaign events, meeting many candidates throughout the years.
Judy and Joel are members of Congregation of Reform Judaism in Orlando, Florida and were long-time members of Temple Emmanuel in Andover, Massachusetts. Their deep connection to the congregation brought them lasting friendships and many joyful holiday celebrations. For several years, Judy enjoyed volunteering in the Temple Emmanuel preschool and took great delight in her interactions with the children.
Funeral Services honoring Judy’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Jacob "Yank" Frank Pavilion at Temple Israel Cemetery (9302 Morton Jones Road in Gotha, Florida) with Rabbi Rachael Jackson of Congregation of Reform Judaism officiating. Interment will follow at Congregation of Reform Judaism Cemetery. May she rest in peace and may her memory always be a blessing.
Judy’s memory will live on through the love she gave so freely and the legacy she leaves behind in her family. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org
Service entrusted to Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel, 933 Lee Road, Suite 101, Orlando, Florida 407-599-1180.
