Article by Elena Ferrarin
Communications Coordinator
Northbrook Park District
The Northbrook Park District mourns the passing of Judy Hughes, a devoted community leader and a great supporter of parks and recreation.
A six-decade resident of Northbrook, Hughes passed away unexpectedly at age 81 on December 27. She was the longtime president of the Northbrook Historical Society opens in new tab, a former Northbrook School District 28 opens in new tab board member and the first president of the Village of Northbrook opens in new tab’s Arts Commission.
Northbrook Park District Executive Director Chris Leiner remembered Hughes as serving as an invaluable resource when he was first hired by the Park District in 2022.
“Her knowledge of each park’s stories and historical context far exceeded anything found in the Park District’s files. She shared that insight generously, and her guidance played an important role in helping me be successful in my work at the Park District,” said Leiner, who became Executive Director in 2023.
In his former role as Director of Park and Properties, Leiner worked closely with Hughes on the annual Shemerfest held in summer at the Park District’s Village Green Park in downtown Northbrook.
“She was genuinely engaged in every aspect of the event, bringing thoughtfulness and care to even the smallest details,” Leiner said. “Judy’s passion for preserving and sharing the community’s history was truly inspiring.”
Northbrook Park District Board Mary Ann Chambers, who has known Hughes for decades, remembered her as a wonderful member of the community.
In addition to being passionate about the history of Northbrook, Hughes was a great fan of genealogy and a fixture greeting visitors at the Northbrook History Museum. “She was very good about educating everyone, and treated everyone who walked in the door with respect and interest,” Chambers said.
Hughes was especially supportive of the Park District’s acquisition of the 60-acre Anetsberger property, which was approved by the community in a referendum in 2000. The property then became Techny Prairie Park and Fields.
“She and I both agreed that neighbors become friends in the parks,” Chambers said.
In her role as the chair of Northbrook’s Centennial Committee, Chambers added, Hughes also was delighted about the installation of the fountain that commemorated the Village’s 100th birthday in 2001 and now welcomes visitors to Village Green Park.
“I was on the Committee, too, and she really pulled all the pieces together for that,” Chambers said. “She really will be missed as we celebrate the Village’s 125th anniversary this year.”
A Celebration of Life for Judy Hughes will be held at 10am on January 17 at Northbrook Covenant Church, 2737 Techny Road, Northbrook. For more information, please visit nhscotthanekamp.com.