Judith M. Fairbank

Judith M. (Berry) Fairbank, age 83, of Danvers, MA passed away on Friday, May 19, 2023 at Salem Hospital. She was the wife of Charles W. “Win” Fairbank, with whom she celebrated 60 years of marriage last August. The daughter of the late Helen “Honey” (Eagan) and Philip L. Berry, she was raised and educated in Peabody and a graduate of Peabody High School and Salem State College. She valued education highly and was proud to be the first person in her family to go to college. As a life-long learner, Judy avidly sought out knowledge on a wide variety of topics, kept up with politics and current events, and was eager to discuss new ways of thinking – especially with her grandchildren and those of younger generations. She was a progressive person who strongly believed in equality for all people which was evident in the way she treated everyone with kindness and compassion. Described aptly as “a warm hug in human form,’ she was also tough as nails, when the situation called for it. A teacher, a travel agent, and finally a Realtor for many years, Judy also volunteered her time to many political campaigns at the local, state and federal levels. She felt strongly that civic engagement was essential to our democracy. She loved any and all activities that included her friends, family and husband, Win. She enjoyed playing tennis and golf for many years at Salem Country Club, making great memories on family vacations, picnicking with Win on her favorite Northshore beaches, including Independence Park, Lynch Park and Singing Beach. Judy’s dedication to her family and friends made her a reliable source of support for so many. Through both celebratory and challenging life events, Judy was there for others. She attended every sports game, performance, birthday, ceremony, and graduation of her children and grandchildren. Any excuse to have a party and Judy was in, but her commitment remained unwavering when skies were gray. Her home was always open to anyone that needed a soft spot to land or simply a good chat. She provided a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, problem-solving advice, and even a bit of tough love when necessary. She is survived by her husband Win, two daughters and sons-in-law, Susan Fairbank-Pitzer and her husband, Allen Pitzer of South Hamilton, MA, and Elizabeth “Beth” Robinson and her husband, Dean Robinson, currently of Atlanta GA. Judy was also the devoted “Nuna” of William Fairbank Pitzer and his wife, Maya Lior Pitzer, of Niskayuna, NY, Alexandra Fairbank Pitzer of South Hamilton, MA, Marissa Fairbank Robinson, Isabelle Fairbank Robinson, and Dana Fairbank Robinson, all of Atlanta, GA, as well as the great-grandmother of Daisy and Leo Charles Pitzer of Niskayuna, NY. She also leaves her sister, Cynthia Berry Luma, of Philadelphia, PA, her sister-in-law Joan Fairbank of Beverly, MA, her cousin Barbara (Condon) Connolly and her husband Brian, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was predeceased by her brothers Stephen L. Berry and former Senator Frederick E. Berry. At Judy’s insistence, there will be no visitation or funeral. Instead, her wish was for those she loved to share stories and continue enjoying life in her memory. Loving memories of Judy will live on forever.