Julia (Judy) Stella Larsen

Julia (Judy) Stella Larsen, age 90, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at the VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, Florida.

Judy was born in Newburgh, NY on May 2,1935, and moved to Brooklyn, NY as a young child. Her family went on to establish their roots on Long Island where Judy spent most of her life. There she pursued her education, career and created memories of a lifetime to cherish forever with family and friends.

She was a strong advocate of education. Judy attended Suffolk County Community College where she met her husband, Kurt and St. Joseph’s College where she remains a dedicated alumnus. After earning her bachelor’s degree, Judy went on to complete her Masters.

Judy spent her adulthood establishing herself in the workforce. She worked at Airborne Industries Inc. for majority of her career as an Executive Administrative Assistant. Judy went on to Brookhaven Labs for a brief time and finished her career handling the accounting for a mobile veterinarian in Westbury.

Judy’s unwavering desire to remain involved after retirement led to her teaching English as a Second Language and exercise classes for seniors. One of her most enjoyable contributions was to help prepare young ladies to enter the workforce by volunteering at Dress for Success.

Beyond her commitment to education, work and volunteering Judy’s family and friends were always near and dear to her. She touched everyone she met with her kindness, warmth and intelligence. She always had a way of making you feel important because she wanted to know about you and your life.

Judy was blessed to travel the world with her husband, Kurt and explore the arts, theatre and museums.  In their later years of marriage, they enjoyed being snowbirds in Vero Beach and eventually became Florida residents. Judy’s interest wasn’t limited to travel and the arts, she enjoyed cooking, hosting and playing mahjong with her dearest friends. Judy was a gift to all who knew her and will forever be missed.

Judy is survived by her husband, Kurt of 60 years, her granddaughter Marissa Amato, her brother Larry Jannotti (Lynne), sister-in-law Janet Fabian (Tom predeceased), sister-in-law Kristine Lowman (Jay), seven nieces and nephews along with ten great nieces and nephews.

Judy was predeceased by her parents Ella and Ralph Jannotti and her only beloved son, Gregory Amato.

There will be a Memorial Service on Long Island, New York (location and date to be determined) and a Celebration of Life in Florida during the spring.

Memorial Contributions may be made by mail to:

St. Joseph’s University, 155 West Roe Blvd, Patchogue, NY 11772 or by going online to their website: https://plannedgiving.sjny.edu/ and complete the memorial donation form.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.