Judith Roden Cumming

CUMMING, Judith – we are sad to announce the passing of Judy, at home, on Friday, July 28, 2023 at the age of 82 years.  

Judith Roden Cumming (nee Patterson) of Petawawa, wife of the late Bob Gunter. Predeceased by her daughter Julie Hunter and sister Nikki Patterson. Daughter of the late James & Dorothy Patterson (nee Trollope).  She is survived by her granddaughter Rachel Hunter and grandson Sam Hunter.  

Judy was born in North Bay and grew up all over Ontario. In early adulthood, she lived in Toronto, before completing Teacher’s College and moving to Petawawa in 1972 with her daughter, Julie, bringing with her the resilience of the frontier town and the sophistication of the big city. She had a determination to live life on her own terms, a sentiment that remained for the rest of her life.  She started teaching in the CFB Petawawa School System where she demonstrated a keen intelligence, a remarkably creative mind and a strong emphasis on order, all of which served her well in her career. During this time, she helped to secure equal pay for women teachers in both Petawawa schools and Renfrew County, putting the feisty in feminist. After the sudden death of her husband Bob and daughter Julie in quick succession, Judy continued to live life well. A member of the Petawawa and Area Grannies since its inception, Judy could always be counted on for interesting and original decorations for all events and delicious dishes for teas and dinners. She gave it all to everything she did. Stained glass and metal turned works of art in Judy’s hands, but never as to repeat an artistic work, all had to be originals. Luckily, there was never a shortage of ideas. Her home and property are a testament to her art. Judy never held back a good joke, a helpful tip, a tall tale or a winning move in Scrabble. She enjoyed her life on the Petawawa River with her famed dinner parties, card parties and love for the great outdoors. She will be greatly missed as a fiercely loyal, dependable friend, a trickster, a source of wisdom and a wonderful grandmother.  

Respecting Judy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial will be held at her home, 470 Rantz Rd., Petawawa on Friday, August 4, 2023 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Arrangements entrusted to Malcolm, Deavitt & Binhammer Funeral Home, Pembroke. As an expression of sympathy, donations to Stephen Lewis Foundation or a charity of your choice is appreciated. Online condolences/donations are available at www.mdbfuneralhome.com