Judith Ann Elizabeth Ziegenfus, 79, died peacefully Monday morning at St. Mary's Villa Nursing Home, where she had been a resident for more than four years.

Born in Kingston on July 16, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Harold John and Elizabeth Mary Baut Ziegenfus. A graduate of Kingston High School, Judith received a Bachelor of Science degree in education at Kutztown State College and a master's degree from the University of Scranton. She also attended Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass.

Judith dedicated her life to being the best English teacher she could possibly be, and she spent most of her career at Abington Heights High School in Clarks Summit, where she single-mindedly focused on her students for nearly 40 years. For those who had eyes to see it, she taught them strength of character by her own example. Many have appreciated the impression she made on them long after leaving her classroom. During retirement, she continued her love of learning by sponsoring a drive to send 50,000 books to African students.

Loving animals with delight, Judith contributed to several charities supporting animal welfare. Touching the lives of countless people throughout her journey, she will forever be missed.

She is survived by a brother, Francis Ziegenfus, Colorado; and loving friends.

Those dear to Judith are grateful to St. Mary's Villa for their care and attention during her stay.

Mass of Christian Burial will be March 6 at 10 a.m. in St. Ann's Basilica, St. Ann's Street, Scranton, to be celebrated by the Rev. Francis Landry, C.P., pastor. Interment will follow at St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Dallas.

Those wishing to pay their final respects are asked to go directly to Mass. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Judith's name may be made to St. Ann's Basilica or a charity for animal welfare. Arrangements are under the care of the Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 N. Main Ave., Scranton. Visit the funeral home website for directions or to leave an online condolence.

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