ROCKPORT — Judith Ann (Clayter) Arey, 82, died on September 15, 2018 at the Sussman House after a long illness.  Born in Vinalhaven on December 30, 1935, she was the daughter of William and Josephine (Sanborn) Clayter. Salutatorian of the Class of 1954 Vinalhaven High School, she played on the girls basketball and softball teams at the school.  Judy attended the University of Maine in Orono, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in education, and had been a member of a sorority there. On October 24, 1959, she married her high school classmate, John R. Arey at the Union Church.  

Judy worked per diem at the Vinalhaven School as a substitute teacher while being a devoted mother to her four children.  In addition, she was an active member of the island community. She coached the girls basketball team for several years, was a Girl Scout leader, performed with the Islandaires musical troupe, sang in the Union Church choir, and played the glockenspiel in the town band.     

In 1977, Judy and John moved to Rockport where she quickly joined the Camden Civic Theater, performing in various productions.  In addition, she was a member of the Robert Coller Chorale singers and performed all over the state. She loved music and theater, which were always important parts of her life.  Judy also taught elementary school at the Appleton School for many years before retiring in 1995. She was a finalist in the statewide Teacher of the Year Award during the governorship of John McKernan.  

In retirement, Judy authored several children’s books illustrated by her oldest granddaughter which are available in bookstores and on Amazon.com.  

Judy’s outgoing personality and enthusiastic nature kept her busy and she was always willing to take on new adventures in life.  She loved to travel with her husband John, she was an excellent cook who enjoyed trying different cuisines, and she loved spending time with her family and friends at their camp on Vinalhaven.  

The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the caregivers at PALS, Camden Area District Nursing Association, Sterling Elite Transportation, Pen Bay Medical Center Special Care Unit, and the Sussman House.  In addition, the family wishes to thank Bob and Sharon Bailey, Mona Benner, and all of the friends who generously gave of their time to provide a network of support, friendship, and love over the last few years.

Surviving is her husband of nearly 59 years, John Arey of Rockport; four children, Jodie Arey and her husband, Kenneth Banks, of Alameda, CA; Julie Arey, John E. Arey, both of Vinalhaven; and Jason Arey and his wife, Angie, of South Portland; brother-in-law, David Arey of Vinalhaven; former daughter-in-law, Hollie Oakes of Vinalhaven; and seven grandchildren:  Madison, Alex, Jazmine, Keon, Hannah, Ellie, and Isaac.

Calling hours will be held 2 - 4 PM, Friday, October 12, 2018 at the Long Funeral Home, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.  A memorial celebration will be held on August 10, 2019 in Vinalhaven at the Union Church and will be announced.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com.  Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.