Mrs. Judith Ellen Miles, 82, a resident of Mears, formerly of Massachusetts, passed away at her home on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026.
Born Oct. 22, 1943, in Washington, D.C., and raised in Westchester, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Louis Morton Bernstein and Silvia Livingston Bernstein.
After graduating from high school, Judith earned her undergraduate degree from Sarah Lawrence College before receiving her Juris Doctor from Western New England Law School, where she graduated second in her class, summa cum laude.
She devoted her professional life to public service as an appellate attorney with the Springfield, Mass., District Court, earning the respect of colleagues through her intellect, diligence, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Judith’s deepest joys were rooted in her faith, her music, and her beloved Mini Lop rabbits. She was a devoted Episcopalian, most recently serving as a faithful member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Onancock.
She began playing the violin at the age of five, and through years of discipline and determination, she rose to become first-chair violinist of the New York State All-State Orchestra. This prestigious role, also known as concertmaster, ranks just below the conductor and serves as the leader of the entire orchestra. It was one of the proudest accomplishments her life.
Judith also had a special affection for rabbits, especially the gentle and spirited Mini Lop. For many years, she found happiness in breeding and training these lively companions for open show competition, a pastime that reflected both her patience and her joyful spirit.
She is survived by her children, Gary Miles and his wife, Jena, of California, and Sarah Miles and her husband, Robert Blanchard, of Massachusetts; her brother, Kenneth “Ken” Bernstein and his wife, Jurretta, of Pennsylvania; and her grandchildren, Kayla and Christina Miles.
A memorial service was held at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Onancock on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Linda Scholer officiating.
Contributions in Judith’s memory may be made to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 348, Onancock, VA 23417.
Memory tributes may be shared at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements were by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.
