Judith Elizabeth Colvin Beeten, known affectionately as Judy, passed away surrounded by her loved ones on August 24, 2024, in Providence, RI, at the age of 78. Born on July 12,1946 in Newark, NJ, Judy grew up with a deep sense of community and a desire to help others. Throughout her life, she was known for her unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and community. To know Judy was to feel truly special and deeply loved – a testament to a life marked by kindness, generosity, and a profound impact on all who crossed her path.  

Judy earned her Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from the University of Lowell, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 1983 with a BA in Political Science, while raising two children. She received the Award for Academic Excellence in the Lowell School of Liberal Arts for ranking number one in her class.  She also received the Political Science Award for Academic Excellence and was chosen by her professors to receive the Department of Political Science Annual Faculty Award.  She married John Beeten in 1985 and they spent 30 years together in Boston and later in Dennis on Cape Cod.  Judy became deeply involved in the local community and served as the President of the Dennis Garden Club, volunteered at the local library, and was a proud supporter of The Cape Playhouse. Her life was enriched by a passion for community service and the arts.
 
Judy had a keen interest in Genealogy (which she passed on to her youngest grandson), and also enjoyed swimming and gardening. She was a wonderful cook and passed on an appreciation of fine food to her children and grandchildren.  Her passion for lobster was unrivaled, and as her family stayed by her side during her final days, they enjoyed Lobster Rolls with her one last time. 
 
Judy resided at Brookdale Center of New England in Coventry, RI for the final two years of her very full life. In her later years, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, a challenge she faced with perseverance, grace, and a remarkable sense of humor.  Judy accepted the diagnosis but also challenged it, logging countless hours of “screen-time” playing word games to sharpen her mind, and rejecting the idea that this disease would define her. 

Above all, Judy’s greatest joy and pride came from being a mother and grandmother. Affectionately known as "Grammy" and "Grandma Judy" to her grandchildren, she cherished these roles most dearly. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa McConkey, her husband Jim O’Toole and their children, Dylan, Sarah and Bridget; and her son, Aaron McConkey, his wife Tara and their son, Declan. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Todd Beeten, his wife Rachel and their children, Nathan and Claire; Andi Guy and her children, Nicole, Christopher, and Kayla; Seth Beeten, his wife Juvencia, and their children, Leeya, Haley, Kurtis, and Alivia; Jonathan Beeten and his daughter, Ashley; and Amy Lowe and her children, Wyatt and Jake. In addition, Judy is survived by siblings, David Colvin and his wife Jeanette, Carol Bittner, Randi Dourdin, Donna Artukovic and her husband Rad, Rolf Kristiansen and his wife Karen and Laurel Hameon and her husband Michel. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Beeten, in 2013. Judy is also fondly remembered by a wide circle of friends and extended family, all of whom were touched by her kindness and generosity.
 
A memorial service will be held Friday, October 18, 2024 at 11:00 am at Dennis Union Church, 713 Main St., Dennis to celebrate Judy’s life and the remarkable impact she left on all of us. In honor of the vibrant life Judy lived, we invite everyone to dress in colorful attire. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, a cause close to Judy’s heart.
 
Judy will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will live on in the innumerable lives she touched. We find comfort in knowing that her legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to inspire us all.
 

Judy was a dear friend to all the Thorp family and she will be very missed by us. Our entire family sends love and condolences to all her family. Much love to all, Peter and Schatze.