Judith Irwin Flagg

Salem – Judith Irwin Flagg, 75, of Salem, passed away peacefully on Thursday afternoon, July 31, 2025, in the comfort of her home, with her family by her side.

Born on January 20, 1950, in Troy, NY, Judy was the daughter of the late William Mahaffy and Beryl (Bassett) Irwin. She was a proud graduate of Salem Washington Academy and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Literature from SUNY Oneonta.

Judy dedicated her life to serving her community in many capacities. She began her career as a librarian, first at Bancroft Public Library in Salem and later at the Greenwich Free Library. Her passion for advocacy and service led her to become the Executive Director for Washington County with the American Cancer Society. She also worked in real estate with Jerome E. Wright Real Estate in Greenwich.

In 1994, Judy followed her entrepreneurial spirit and opened Union Village, Ltd in Greenwich, a shop she owned and operated for 22 years until 2016. Her commitment to public service continued as she served on the Salem Town Board for eight years. She also held the positions of Salem Town Historian and Deputy Historian, roles she embraced with care and a deep respect for local history. Her deep love of local history led to contributions as co-author of Historic Washington County: A Photographic Portrait and editor of Early History of the Town of Salem and The Heart of Salem: From Its Origins to 2009.

Judy’s faith was an important part of her life. She was a member of the former East Greenwich Presbyterian Church until its closing and was currently a member of the United Presbyterian Church of Salem. An avid lover of music, Judy played Alto Saxophone in the Washington County Band, the OBQ Woodwind Ensemble, the Granville-Poultney Band, and the Green Mountain Band in Poultney. She was also an active member of the Asa Fitch Historical Society.

Judy enjoyed crocheting, knitting, cooking, gardening, reading, and traveling. She made countless knitted hats for patients at the CR Wood Cancer Center to take home and wear—an act of kindness that reflected her generous and compassionate spirit. In recognition of her dedication to the Town of Salem, Judy was honored at the annual Al Fresco Dinner at the Historic Salem Courthouse on Saturday, July 19, 2025.

She is survived by her loving husband of 26 years, Kenneth J. Flagg, whom she married on May 8, 1999; her children, Caitlin Rogers (Thomas) Piacentini of Norfolk, MA, and Grayson Rogers of Argyle, NY; her cherished grandchildren, Molly and Tess Piacentini; and her brother, John (Marjorie) Irwin of East Greenwich, NY. Judy is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of dear friends.

Judy will be deeply missed by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her warmth, dedication, and generous spirit left a lasting mark on the community she loved and served so well.

Calling hours will be from 4-7 pm on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home, 19 East Broadway, Salem, NY.

A private family burial service will take place on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Historic Salem Courthouse, P.O. Box 140, Salem, NY 12865, the Asa Fitch Society, c/o Stephen Snyder, 342 Scotts Lake Rd., Salem, NY 12865 or The Pinkie Fund, 4321 State Route 22, Salem, NY  12865 (The Pinkie Fund helps owners receive veterinary care for their beloved pets who would not be able to)

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Judy, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com.

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