KURTZWORTH, JUDY A. (nee Carocci) (Simon)

 August 6, 1951 - February 5, 2026 

Age 74 of the City of Tonawanda. Wife of Peter B. Kurtzworth and wife of the late Gary Simon. Mother of Tim (Cindy) Simon and step-mother of Matthew Kurtzworth, daughter of the late James and Angeline Carocci, sister of Linda Kolarz and the late Rosann Carocci. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Judy Kurtzworth, a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished family member, accomplished gardener, and dedicated member of her community. Judy’s life was a testament to service, creativity, and devotion – both to those she loved and to the wider world around her. Judy dedicated herself to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, where she served in numerous ministries and leadership roles, including Parish Council, Liturgy Committee, Religious Education, lector, Eucharistic Minister, and Folk Group Leader. Her volunteerism earned her the St. Joseph the Worker Award from the Diocese of Buffalo in 2024. Judy enjoyed a long career with the City of Tonawanda, where she was highly respected for her professionalism. She served as Executive Secretary to two mayors, worked in the Building Inspector and Police Departments, and served as Scribe for the Office of Emergency Management. An accomplished gardener and former President of the Garden Club of the Tonawandas, Judy took pride in caring for the gardens at the Long Homestead and the Historical Society. A Master Gardener, her home gardens were featured in Buffalo-Niagara Gardening Magazine in 2016, and she is honored on the Federated Garden Clubs of New York State Honor Roll. Judy was also known for her exceptional baking, especially her apple pies and cookies, which she generously shared with family, friends, and homebound members of the community. She cherished spontaneous dancing with her husband Peter, weekend trips to the Finger Lakes Region, spending time fishing the Niagara River, craft shows, wine tours, ATV rides, and cheering for the Buffalo Sabres. Judy loved decorating her home for every holiday and extended that passion to St. Francis of Assisi Church and Tonawanda City Hall. A recipient of the Tonawanda News Women of Distinction Award in 2010, Judy leaves a legacy of kindness, dedication, and joy. Her passion for gardening beautified her neighborhood, while her culinary talents and welcoming spirit made countless gatherings memorable. She inspired others through her genuine interest in the happiness of those around her. Judy will be remembered always for her unwavering love and generous heart. The family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday February 15, 2026 from 3-7 PM at JOHN 0. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (between Morgan & Broad Sts.) City of Tonawanda. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday February 16, 2026 at 9:30 AM in Our Lady of Czestochowa RC Church, 626 Oliver St. (corner of Center St.) North Tonawanda, NY 14120. Everyone welcome to attend. A private entombment will be in St. Francis Chapel Columbarium with Judy's family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.