Judith Elizabeth (East) Moe, age 82, of South Dartmouth, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 3, 2022 at home. She was the wife of the late Erling Moe and William Tuttle. Born in Buckhurst Hill, Essex, England, she was a daughter of the late Alexander Joseph East and Kathleen “Kitty” (Theo-Ward) East. She is survived by her sisters Susan “Jubby” Miles of Earls Colne, Essex, England and Diane Frances East of Dartmouth.

 

Growing up in post war England made for many adventurous tails to tell around the dinner table. Most noteworthy, her father, Alexander, was a prisoner of war for 2 years before safely returning home, after World War II in 1945. Her mother Kitty, who was a talented artist, had to find a way to keep the family going amidst the hardships, perhaps explaining the origin of Judy’s ‘can do’ attitude.

 

Judy was educated at St. Mary's Hall, Brighton, England. Early in her career, Judy worked for the Archbishop of Canterbury when living as a young woman in London. She was captain of her Lacrosse team in her youth, and an avid tennis player throughout her life. Judy moved to New York City in the early 1960’s for her job working for Bishop Bayne. During her time in New York, she met her first true love, and husband, Erling Moe, who had recently emigrated from Norway. They married in the early sixties and moved to Massachusetts to start a family and launch Erling’s fishing business. Erling and Judy raised two sons in Dartmouth, MA., Nils P. Moe and Erling “Buzzy” Moe. She received a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth and had a successful and rewarding career as an educator in the New Bedford School system.

 

Judy was the loving matriarch of the Moe family, a pillar in her community and a beloved friend. She leaves her legacy in her two children, Nils and Buzzy, joined by their spouses, and 6 grandchildren (Olivia, Max, Ella, Amaia, Larsen, and Dax). Judy’s positive outlook and loving, energetic spirit touched all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She loved adventure of all kinds, from local outings with her grandchildren, her winter trips to Florida, and exotic international travel. But mostly, Judy was happiest sitting out in the garden or on the beach with loved ones, with a glass of wine, good food, and laughter. She loved everyone, without judgment or pretense. She loved life and lived it to the fullest each and every day. She generously gave her presence and unconditional love to everyone and will be very missed. ​​The family and friends of Judith Elizabeth Moe will gather in celebration of her life, amidst the May flowers in her garden that she so dearly loved.