Judith "Judy" Slinger

Judith Lynn (Zager) Slinger, known lovingly as Judy, age 73, of Danville, California, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on October 5, 2025.

Born in Richland Center, Wisconsin, Judy graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a degree in Special Education and went on to earn her Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. She later earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PH.D.) in Education from the University of Denver, a degree that represented not only her academic achievement but her deep love of learning and lifelong pursuit of wisdom.

Judy and her husband, Randy Slinger, were married on July 6, 1974, and shared 51 wonderful years together filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. In 1987, they moved with their children, Jen and Jon, from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to Boulder, Colorado, where Judy began teaching in the Boulder Valley School District. Her dedication and passion for literacy led her to become the Director of Literacy, overseeing all literacy programs across the district and its 62 schools, inspiring students and educators alike.

After living in Boulder, Judy and Randy moved to Danville, California, in 2011 to be close to their grandchildren, who were the joy of her life. She was deeply involved in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Blackhawk Scholarship Fund, where she helped empower young women in financial need to pursue higher education. Judy also served on the Blackhawk Women’s Golf Association Board and was an active member of San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church (SRVUMC), where she contributed to several committees, including the Preschool Commission, and also served as one of the church’s Memorial Coordinators.

Judy lived life with energy, positivity, and joy. She loved playing tennis, golf, and cards, and her spirited competitiveness made her both a fun and formidable partner. She will be remembered for her warmth, optimism, intelligence, and insightful conversations that always made others think more deeply.

Judy is survived by her devoted husband, Randy; her daughter and son-in-law, Jen and David Hogan; her son, Jon Slinger; her beloved grandchildren, Lauren (23), Jack (22), and Max (18); and her cherished step-grandchildren, Spencer (19), Max (16), and Kelsey (14). She is also survived by her sister, Peggy Wald; her stepmother, Judy Zager; her sisters-in-law, Sue Griswold and Pam Slinger; and her parents-in-law, Christa and Steve Slinger.

A memorial service to celebrate Judy’s life will be held at The San Ramon Valley Methodist Church in Alamo, California on November 22nd at 11:00 a.m. The service will be live streamed and there will be a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Blackhawk Scholarship Fund. To donate and learn more about the organization Judy was passionate about, please visit https://www.blackhawkscholarshipfund.org

Judy’s love, wisdom, and radiant spirit will continue to live on in everyone who was blessed to know her.