Judith “Judy” Simpson McGowan, age 82, of Lutherville, Md, passed away peacefully on March
10, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born in North Carolina on May 27, 1941.
Judy was a beloved sister, mother, aunt & grandmother who cherished life and always found the
positive in everyone & everything. She took great pride in her children and granddaughters. A
passionate synchronized swimming enthusiast since the age of 12, Judy dedicated herself to
the sport in various capacities throughout her life, including coaching, judging, and advocating
for its inclusion in the Olympics. She served as President of US Synchro for 12 years and
helped establish a foundation to support the sport she loved.
She is survived by her son, Nicholas Joseph McGowan III, daughter Kathleen Sacha (Craig
Sacha), sisters Cheryl Atkins and Jennifer Jacobs, brother in law Joe McGowan,
granddaughters Katie, Lauren, Krissy, Jessica, and Jackie, as well as many nieces and
nephews. Judy was preceded in death by her husband Nicholas Joseph McGowan Jr, mother
Velma Jacobs, father Eugene Jacobs and sister Jackie Anderson.
Judy dedicated 20 years of her life to teaching in Baltimore City. Her impact on her students and
colleagues will be remembered fondly.
She attended Western High School and pursued higher education at Towson Teachers College
initially then going on to earn two master's degrees from Towson University. Judy’s dedication to
education was evident in her teaching career.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at The Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, 5200 N.
Charles St, Baltimore, MD, on Friday, May 24, 2024, at 10:00, with a reception following.
Any donations may be made to the USA Artistic Swimming Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit.
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