Paying Tribute to Judith Stofer Block

It is with heavy hearts that we mark the transition of Field Foundation Life Director Judith Stofer Block, who passed away on June 26 at the age of 83.

Judy dedicated her life to civic service and made an incredible impact in the many leadership roles she played in the city of Chicago. A trailblazer, she was the first woman to lead the board of the Field Museum. She served on the Executive Committee of the Chicago Community Trust. She was also passionate about child welfare and served on the boards of the Jane Addams Juvenile Court Foundation, the Child Welfare League of America, and the Chicago Foundation for Education.

Judy led the Field Foundation Board of Directors as Board Chair from 2009-2014. We benefited from her stewardship, powerful presence, and kind nature.

“I had the pleasure of getting to know Judy and seeing her love for Chicago up close in my work at The Chicago Community Trust,” said Daniel O. Ash, President, Field Foundation of Illinois. “As a former member of the Trust governing board, she was allowed to serve on committees. As she did with the Field Foundation, July made it her business to continue to serve. She attended nearly every community engagement committee meeting throughout my Trust tenure, always bringing energy and ideas to each discussion.”

We are grateful for Judy’s leadership and legacy. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with her family.

Chicago Tribune obituary: https://www.chicagotribune.com/2024/07/03/judith-stofer-block-first-woman-to-lead-field-museum-board-dies-at-83/