Judith Ann Walton, beloved friend, community leader, business partner, colleague, and cat mom, died on April 13, 2023.
Jude was born on March 6, 1972 in North London, the child of Peter Walton and Sandra Elizabeth Walton. She attended Cambridge University where she studied English. After graduating Jude came to live in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She cofounded Zingerman’s Mail Order in 1995 and was a managing partner in the Zingerman’s Community of Businesses for the next 13 years. In 2008, Jude joined Avalon Housing, a nonprofit that works to end homelessness by developing affordable housing centered on community, care, and support. She led the Employee Experience team until her passing.
Jude was someone everyone went to for advice, encouragement, or a shoulder to cry on. She was a culture-bearer wherever she worked. She was a great friend, a wonderful listener, and she cared passionately about her community and world.
Jude was an avid photographer. She exhibited locally and employed her talents to capture important moments in the lives of her friends and coworkers.
Jude’s memory will be cherished by her brother David Walton, sister-in-law Christina Knowles, and countless friends and colleagues.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jude’s memory to Avalon Housing.
