IN MEMORIAM
JUDY WOOD
Friend and Community Supporter
O
by Andie Moss
n June 13, 2021, our community lost a beloved friend and community contributor. Judy Wood passed away after heart surgery and complications that followed. She leaves behind an adoring family and a legacy of kindness and quiet but powerful influence in the lives of so many. Judy was born in Jacksonville, Florida December 23, 1947. Judy and her partner of 30 years, Andie Moss have been Capitol Hill residents since 1998. They have loved the vibrant life on the hill. Judy had a motto to “create memories” with family and dear friends and she hosted many special moments for both in her home at 13 Ninth St. NE. Judy’s love of art and local artists particularly inspired her to open her home to a series of art shows in the early years of living on Capitol Hill. She was a champion for helping artists find success in the promotion of their work. Judy’s professional life in DC involved working closely with the non-profit community. She was often in a position as a financial advisor or CFO with organizations with strong missions but in need of strengthened financial processes. She was tenacious in finding pathways for their success. Patty Brosmer of the Capitol Hill Business Development Improvement District and Ready Willing and Working Non-Profit said, “She’s been our financial rock for 20 years. From when we had a budget of $450K to a current annual budget of $4 million, she has made sure we had clean audits every year. I wouldn’t be where I am, nor would 60 formerly incarcerated/homeless people be living up to their best abilities if she weren’t shepherding our financials for us.” Judy’s full partnership in establishing The Moss Group, a criminal justice consulting firm that is of national prominence was a labor of love with her partner, Andie. Judy’s early professional path of breaking many glass ceilings was demonstrated in the establishment of her firm Wood and Associates, CPAs in Atlanta, Georgia in 1983. She was one of only a few women CPAs in Atlanta and was a founding member of the Atlanta Women Owned Business Association. With the loving help of her sister and niece her firm grew to 11 CPA’s, key staff, and a broad client base. When Judy turned 60, her partner, family and friends rented a villa in Italy. A major surprise was hiring opera singers to perform at the villa. The beauty of the moment was magical.
“The wonderful surprise of Opera Night was so beautiful and emotional and heartfelt. But most importantly I was surrounded by the people that love me and there is no greater gift,” Judy said afterwards. Judy, you are once again surrounded by people— many, many people who love you as we cherish our memories of your incredible life and your charming ability to be powerful yet calm, reassuring and kind. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Ready, Willing and Working, a non-profit that Judy was especially proud to be a part of, or a non-profit of choice. There will be a Celebration of Life for Judy in September, details will follow on the Hill Rag website. ◆
July 2021 ★ 67
