Judith B. Hems

Judith (Judi) "Little One" Sommers Hems, 67 of Vernon, formerly of Manchester, wife of the late Ronald Hems passed away from ALS on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 at Rockville Hospital with her close friends by her side. Judi was born in Manchester on May 20, 1947, daughter of the late Carl and Helen (Orlowski) Sommers. She was raised in Manchester, graduated from Manchester High School Class of 1965 and attended Manchester Community College. Her working career included positions with the Phoenix Mutual Group America, Trans General Insurance Companies and she retired in 2000 from Mass Mutual Insurance Company. Judi volunteered for MACC at Shepherd's Place and the Pantry and her ultimate experience for volunteering was at The Hawaiian Ironman Competition in which husband Ron competed. Her many interests and hobbies were, fishing, bowling, cooking, gardening, first snowfall and especially walking the beaches in Florida and laughing. Judi is survived by a sister, Patricia Hetzel of Manchester, a brother, Charles Sommers of California, numerous nieces and nephews, dear friends, Sue Mitchell, Noreen, (Southergill) Watson and Micki Ogren, special cousins, Mike Orlowski and Sue (Orlowski) Cesca, constant and significant companion, Rick Macaione. In addition to her husband and parents, Judi was predeceased by a brother, James Sommers and a very special uncle, Walter Orlowski. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to ALS Society of CT, 4 Oxford Rd. Unit D4, Milford, CT 06460. Holmes Funeral Home Manchester is in care of arrangements. To leave a message of condolence please visit www.holmes-watkinsfuneralhomes.com