Judy Ann Lahair

Judy Ann LaHair, 71, of Belchertown, passed away peacefully at her home on February 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and friends. She was born on August 3, 1954, in Lansing, to Theodore A. and Shirley A. (Hancock) Maag.

Judy’s journey through life began in Michigan and later took her to several southern states before she settled in Florida for many years. Eventually, she made her home in the Northeast, where she spent her later years close to family.

Judy found deep peace and joy in the beauty of the outdoors. She loved birdwatching and had a magical touch in her garden, every plant under her care thrived. She was also an avid crafter who delighted in origami, diamond art, coloring, cross-stitch, and sewing. Judy found great happiness in sharing her handmade creations, always eager to brighten someone else’s day through her thoughtful gifts.

Mental health challenges marked much of Judy’s adult life, but she faced those struggles with resilience and determination. Refusing to surrender, she founded Whirlwind Cleaners and earned a grant that allowed her to employ individuals facing mental health disorders, helping them regain stability, confidence, and independence. Her compassion and personal experience enabled her to uplift others in meaningful and lasting ways.

Judy had an abundance of love to give. After her working years, she devoted much of her time to her grandchildren and to close family friends, whom she cherished as extended family. Friends such as Kristina and her children, Alyssa and Konnor, along with her niece Katie, and Ilona shared a special mutual bond with Judy, as did many others. Judy’s warmth and kindness also fostered deep connections with caregivers throughout her life, including Astrid and her daughter, Mariah, Lexi, and many others.

Judy is survived by her three children: Shawn LaHair and his wife, Sarai, of Ashland, MA; Vivienne Pelletier and her spouse, Jeremy “Mike” Shaw, of Belchertown, MA; and Beth Ann LaHair of Ware, MA. She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren: Ryan and Ximena LaHair; and Michael (along with his girlfriend Magda), Troy (along with his girlfriend Olivia), Nathaniel, Rosalie, and Lilliann Pelletier.

She is also survived by her siblings: Robb Maag and his wife, Patti, of Georgia and their children; Joann Maag and her daughter, Jaynee, of Florida, and James “Jimmy” Maag and his wife, Ellen, and his children, also of Florida. She is remembered with affection by her ex-husband, Walter R. LaHair Sr.; her former daughter-in-law, Ana LaHair; her stepchildren, Deborah, Laura, Robbie, and Cindy; as well as many generations of nieces and nephews.

All services will be private. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.