Judith Ann (Wirt) Messinger

Judith Ann “Judy” (Wirt) Messinger, age 85, of Mechanicsburg, PA, and formerly of Hockessin, DE, passed away peacefully at Thornwald Home in Carlisle on June 17, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her devoted family.

Born on November 12, 1940, in Carlisle, PA, Judy was the cherished daughter of the late George J. Wirt and Margaret Ann (Bell) Wirt. A lifelong caregiver, compassionate soul, and steadfast friend, Judy touched countless lives through her warmth, generosity, and quiet strength.

Judy was a proud graduate of Camp Hill High School, Class of 1958, where she formed many lifelong friendships and fond memories. Following graduation, she pursued her calling in nursing and earned her Registered Nurse degree from the Delaware Hospital School of Nursing in Wilmington, DE. Nursing was not simply a profession for Judy — it was a reflection of her deeply caring heart. She especially loved pediatrics and carried a special tenderness for children throughout her life. Her nursing career spanned many years and included helping to manage her former husband David’s family medicine practice in Newark, Delaware. Patients and colleagues alike appreciated Judy’s calming presence, attention to detail, and genuine compassion. She also played an important role in the early growth and development of the Junior Board at Christiana Hospital, generously dedicating her time and talents in support of community healthcare initiatives. Beyond her professional life, Judy found joy in the simple and beautiful moments of everyday living. She possessed an extraordinary green thumb and took immense pride in her gardens, which flourished under her loving care. Friends and family often sought her gardening wisdom, though many joked that no one could quite match Judy’s magical touch with flowers and plants.

Judy also enjoyed reading, crocheting, and creating cozy blankets and coverlets that became treasured gifts for children, grandchildren, and friends. Each handmade creation carried the comfort and love she so naturally shared with others. Her compassion extended well beyond people. Judy had a soft spot for stray and abandoned cats, and over the years many lost kittens found safety, nourishment, and affection at her doorstep. She had a remarkable ability to nurture frightened animals into beloved companions, embodying the kindness and patience that defined her character. Faith and community service remained central throughout Judy’s life. She was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Camp Hill, where she served as a volunteer receptionist and gave generously of her time, talents, and energy. She was also an active contributor to the Historical Society of Camp Hill, helping preserve the stories and heritage of the community she loved so dearly. Judy’s greatest joy, however, was her family. 

She is lovingly survived by her children, Kurt Godwin (and his wife Melissa) of Cape Coral, FL, Craig Godwin (and his wife Theresa Tyree) of Orlando, FL, and Karen Lofgren of Leominster, MA; and step-children Kathy Martin (and her husband Mark) of Newark, DE, Scott Messinger (and his wife Belinda) of Orlando, FL, and Barry Messinger of Wilmington, DE. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Maxwell Godwin (and his wife Annabelle) of Vienna, VA, Ryan Kennedy (and his wife Meegan) of Ocean City, MD, Kaitlyn Magee of Hanover, PA, Rachel Lofgren of Fitchburg, MA, Meghan Lofgren of Chicago, IL, and Matthew Lofgren of Nashua, NH; and a delighted great-grandmother to Isabella Godwin of Vienna, VA.

She is also survived by her brothers, George Wirt (and his wife Charlotte) and Alan Wirt (and his wife Christine), both of Mechanicsburg, as well as her beloved nieces and nephews Gregory Wirt, Ryan Wirt, Benjamin Barron, Dustin Wirt, and Abbey Walsh, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Judy will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, quick wit, and the comforting way she made others feel cared for and welcomed. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the many lives she touched through nursing and friendship, and the countless acts of quiet generosity that defined her life.

A private interment service will be held at a future date, when Judy’s ashes will be placed in the Trinity Lutheran Church Columbarium in Camp Hill, PA.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the doctors, nurses, caregivers, staff, volunteers, and friends at Albright Life, Thornwald Home, and Hospice of Central PA, for the loving care and compassion shown to Judy during her final years. Special thanks are also extended to Judy’s cousin, Jo Day, for her constant companionship, devoted friendship, and loving support throughout the years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Judy’s memory to Trinity Lutheran Church, 2000 Chestnut Street, Camp Hill, PA 17011, or to Speranza Animal Rescue, 1216 Brandt Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.

Judy’s family has entrusted her care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Judy’s full obituary, view her photograph, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle, and sign her official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.