Sr. Judith Ann Mouch, RSM, 77, a beloved Sister of Mercy for 59 years, entered eternal life unexpectedly at her home in Detroit on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Born on August 17, 1947, in Toledo, Ohio, she was the daughter of Robert H. and Mary L. (VanKarsen) Mouch.
Sister Judy responded to her call to religious life on September 8, 1965, when she entered the Religious Sisters of Mercy in Cincinnati, Ohio. She professed temporary vows on August 16, 1968, and perpetual vows on July 29, 1973. Her ring bears the motto: “I thank you my God for this amazing day,” a reflection of her grateful and joyful spirit.
A passionate educator and compassionate caregiver, Sister Judy earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Cincinnati, an Advanced Certificate in Nursing (APNRC), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Wayne State University, and a Master of Arts (MA) in Pastoral Ministry from Marygrove College in Detroit.
Sister Judy’s ministry spanned many areas where her intellectual rigor and deep faith made an impact on the lives of countless individuals. She served as a nursing professor at Mercy College of Detroit and the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) where she inspired and mentored future healthcare professionals who remember her to this day. As a Pastoral Associate at St. Luke Parish in Detroit, she ministered to the spiritual needs of the community. She was also deeply involved in the Migrant Health Ministry advocating for underserved people. Additionally, Sister Judy earned a certificate in Spiritual Direction from Manresa Jesuit Retreat House in Bloomfield Hills, MI, and was awarded the Nightingale Award for Nursing in 1995. Most recently, Sister Judy was a Sponsor Affiliate within the Office of Mission Integration at UDM, a Mercy Liaison position to parallel the position of the Jesuit Representative.
A brilliant, humble, and kind soul, Sister Judy devoted her life to making a difference in the world through her diverse ministries. Her deep empathy, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to service touched all who knew her. Her love for God and others was evident in all her works of mercy, whether in the classroom, in the parish, or among her relationships.
In addition to her parents, Sister Judy was preceded in death by a brother, Michael J. Mouch (USCG). She is survived by siblings, Kathy (Lynn) Sattler, Bob (Judy) Mouch, Annie Mouch (Jean-Marie Asselin), and Tom (Kathy) Mouch; nieces, Ashely Sattler, Sarah Asselin (David Silvestro), Laura Asselin (Chris Surujbally), Allison Mouch (Drew) Hagemeier, and Jennifer (Rick) Hughes; nephews, Casey (Emily) Sattler, Brock Sattler, Andrew Mouch, Patrick (Katey Silvers) Mouch, Corey (Mallory Arnold) Mouch, Matthew Asselin (Kara Merpaw), and Dominique Asselin (Cecilia Braga); ten great-nieces and nephews; as well a host of colleagues, friends and her Sisters in Community.
Sister Judy’s death leaves a void in the lives of countless others, but her legacy of faith, ministry and compassion will continue to inspire all those who were blessed to know her.
Visitation, Vigil Service and Mass of Christian Burial for Sister Judy will all take place at Gesu Catholic Church, 17180 Oak Dr. in Detroit. Visitation is planned for Friday, January 3, from 2-6 pm with the Vigil Service at 4:00 pm. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday morning, January 4, at 11:00 am. Interment is planned for Sunday, January 5, 1:30 pm, at Our Lady of the Pines Cemetery, located on the beautiful grounds of the St. Bernardine Home, 1250 Tiffin Street, Fremont, OH. Her community and all those she served will continue to hold her in their prayers, giving thanks to God for the gift of her life and ministry.
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