Judith Susan

Lechtner

Judith Susan Bragg Lechtner Stetson

Aug 23, 1945 - Aug 21, 2022

"If you knew her, you knew what she stood for."

Judith passed away peacefully in the presence of her family on her beloved Duck Pond Farm in North East, PA late in the evening of Aug 21, 2022.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jack Stetson.

She is survived by her devoted children, Jacob (Karen) Lechtner and Carrie Lechtner Galbreath.

Also, Nana, will be deeply missed by her grandchildren Cassea Galbreath (Allyson Clarke), Max (Amariah) Galbreath, Carl Schwartz and Cash Smith.

Though Judith was never one to seek or accept recognition for her charitable work, her family believes it is necessary to acknowledge a few of the gifts she offered to the North East community.

Sharing her love and respect for animals, The Duck Pond Farm was a field trip destination for hundreds of special needs, preschool and kindergarten classes to experience the hands-on, sights and sounds of a farm full of animals. Judith had rescued and adopted so very many animals of all kinds and provided a safe sanctuary for them to live out their earthly days in peace and comfort.

Judith also was part of the foundational team that established the North East Little Gridders program in 1975 and with her children, Jacob and Carrie right alongside her, remained its matriarch until her grandchildren outgrew the program, a full 40 years. Judith also understood the need to embrace soccer and early in the 80s established The North East Soccer Association. She did her best to balance safety, education and affordability for families while instilling the love of the game and competition for youth for generations for the North East Community.

Judith was a caring, generous friend to all. She will be deeply missed by many.

The family would like to give a special heartfelt thank you to Nurse Tracie of VNA Hospice.

Memorials, if you choose, should be made to Anna shelter at 1555 East 10th Street, Erie, PA 16511, or to the charity of your choice.