82, of Chestnut Hill, Mass., died on Friday, September 17, 2021, from complications related to breakthrough Covid-19. She was the loving wife of Bob Bland; beloved mother of Kristin Bland Fusco of Westwood, Mass., William Edward Bland of New York City, and Katherine Crosby Conroy of Wilson, Wyo., and their spouses; and adored grandmother to four grandsons: John and Matthew Fusco, and Jack and Cael Conroy. She was predeceased by her dear siblings, Gilbert Trask and Estelle Marsan; and her cherished parents, Esther McNamara Sturgis and William Henry McNamara Jr. Judy was born in Boston on March 25, 1939. Her appetite for learning and her strong work ethic began as a child growing up in Lexington. She was a member of the Honor Society at Lexington High School and then attended Wheaton College in Norton. She showed her fortitude and determination by working several jobs to pay her way through school. She was the first in her family to earn a degree when she graduated from Wheaton in 1962. Her challenges in earning her degree inspired her to support others in their educational pursuits. She created the Emergency Discretionary Fund at Wheaton to support students who experience sudden financial setbacks. Her advocacy for education continued after experiencing her own children's challenges with reading and dyslexia. She became a reading specialist for children with dyslexia and learning differences and worked in that capacity at Dedham Country Day School for 17 years, opening the world of knowledge to hundreds of students. In 1965 she met Bob Bland and stole his heart. The two began a 56-year union rooted in love, respect and loyalty. On this foundation they raised their children and built precious lifelong friendships. They were completely dedicated to each other and their family. Judy was devoted to her grandchildren, often attending hockey, soccer and lacrosse games. She was their biggest fan. Judy was a very active participant in life. She connected to people through the activities she loved, especially tennis, bridge and quilting. She is remembered for her fierce competitive spirit on the tennis court—in particular, her unorthodox and unreturnable backhand lob that would hit the corner of the line. An active gardener, she was frequently observed by the tennis players of the Longwood Cricket Club, across the street from her house, pursuing any number of home improvement projects. In her later years she used her passion for sewing and quilting to bring friends and neighbors together. Her homemade blueberry muffins and chocolate chip cookies are remembered by many former Harvard hockey players. Judy urged people to "reach out and connect," and quietly did so throughout her own life. Judy's essence and kindness were captured in her final words to her family, which she communicated in a beautiful letter in her last days when she could not be with them. Her wish was for her family and friends "to love and support and care for each other. Reach out and connect. Don't ask for anything back. Let each other know that you are there for them. You will never regret this." Because of Covid restrictions, the family will hold a private memorial service. A celebration of Judy's life will be held in the spring when it is safe to gather. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Marjorie Judith McNamara Bland '62 Emergency Discretionary Fund, ℅ Advancement Office, Wheaton College, Norton, MA 02766.