Judith S. Archer

Judith “Judy” S. Archer, age 77, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2025, following a long journey with complex cardiac illness. She is now reunited with her beloved husband, Joseph M. Archer, formerly of Pennsville, NJ, whom she deeply cherished. Judy grew up in the Quaker Neck area of Mannington, NJ, where she developed a lifelong love of learning and family history. She graduated from Salem High School and went on to earn her teaching degree from the University of Delaware. Judy dedicated more than 30 years to teaching at Wilmington Manor Elementary School in the Colonial School District in New Castle, Delaware. She was a devoted educator who touched the lives of countless students and was warmly respected by colleagues and families alike. In July 1974, Judy married the love of her life, Joseph, and together they shared 44 wonderful years of marriage. They were truly meant for one another—traveling together and delighting in their shared hobby of collecting teddy bears, each with its own name. Joe affectionately called Judy his “Ju Ju Bear,” a nickname that reflected their deep bond and playful love. Judy also adored magnolias and magnolia trees, fondly referring to her home as “Magnolia Manor.” Judy found great joy in reading, making beautiful sequined calendars for loved ones and friends, spending time with family and cousins, researching genealogy, and learning about early family and regional history. Her curiosity, kindness, and gentle spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Amy Norton and Charles “Lloyd” Steward; her husband, Joseph “Joe” Archer; and many beloved aunts and uncles. She is survived by her close cousins: Donna Jones (Muggs Jones) and her daughter Sarah; Janice Walton and her children Marcia, Donald Keith, Heather, and Christopher; Jack Kurman and his daughter Karen; along with many other cousins and extended family who held a special place in her heart. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Judy’s devoted personal caregivers and caring friends (Diana, Kim, and Clarence) who supported her at home, as well as the many emergency responders who assisted Judy and Joe throughout their years of health challenges. A service to celebrate Judy’s life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2025, at Ashcroft Funeral Home, 740 S. Broadway, Pennsville, NJ 08070. Visitation with the family will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a brief service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Salem, NJ. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice or through another meaningful gesture in Judy’s honor, such as planting a tree.