Judith W. Sampson

Judith (Judy) Wolfe Sampson, 81, left her earthly presence on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at which time her soul has travelled on the epic journey home, to reunite with family and friends. Previously living in Clifton Park and Schenectady. She was a resident of Northville NY, happily living in retirement in the log cabin home built by her husband, Mark, located on the shores of Sacandaga lake.

Born and raised in Niskayuna she attended Notre Dame High School and later St Rose College. In her professional life, Judy built a successful career with New York State Government encompassing several decades. She was a selected member within the elite inner circle of the New York Governor’s Office. She was personally appointed by six consecutive Governors spanning from Hugh Carey through Andrew Cuomo and each Governor in between. Her position empowered her to oversee and implement executive policy. She was responsible for revision and reformation of NYS regulatory agendas. She also advised business in all areas concerning State regulation and permitting requirements. Judy fulfilled her responsibilities brilliantly. Her appointment was respected by the public at large and she received many accolades and honors. In fact, there was an actual file entitled “Good job Judy” that was used for training new appointees.

Judy excelled in her personal life as well. She was also known as The Wolfe Fan Clubs official “Dancing Queen” and she ensured that the Club survived. Judy demonstrated fierce love and loyalty as a wife, mom, grandmother, sister, a favorite aunt, and favorite cousin. She was everyone’s best friend and had a moral compass that was as reliable as the sunrise. What fun she was hosting get togethers for friends and family up at Sacandaga Lake-- almost every weekend felt like a holiday event! There was always room for an extra plate at the table in case someone showed up unexpectedly. She was able to make each gathering memorable and special.

Judy took care of all of us. She was always so very strong and when crisis invaded her motto was “bash on regardless” and it served her well. She was protective by nature, generous beyond belief and maternally nurturing to all. Judy had the gift to recognize when others needed support, and she delivered that help with complete abandon. She truly was a messenger from heaven. Always teaching us a lesson of goodness through her actions and generosity, she gave of herself in every way imaginable. The world has lost someone spectacular, but she will be waiting for us, ready to welcome us when we go to that reunion.

Judy is survived by her husband Mark Sampson, daughter Jennifer MacCuish (Eric) of Massachusetts, Stephan Matarazzo (Sarah) of Northville NY, Jonathan Sampson, of Massachusetts. She is also survived by two grandchildren, a sister Kristienne Wolfe of Amsterdam NY and brother Joseph Wolfe (Marilyn) of Ormond Beach Fl. Her immediate family that has gone before her include, her parents, Joseph and Ruth Wolfe, sisters, Casey Wolfe, Colleen Izzo, and Stephanie (Patty) Nebolini. Judy is welcomed home by many friends and family who travelled ahead of her to organize her reunion.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral mass, Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, 810 Union St., Schenectady. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St Judes Hospital online through Visit the St. Jude Memorial Donations Portal or St. Jude Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105