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Judith M. Caslin of Hampton Bays died in April at Good Shepherd Hospice in Port Jefferson, with her son and daughter at her side. She was 70.
The daughter of Dorothy Craft and Albert Mollicone, she grew up in Yonkers and received training in shorthand and business. She married Stephen Caslin in 1974 and had twins, Lauren and Christian, in 1975. She worked as a waitress and ballet instructor for young children, bringing her enthusiasm and personal style to her occupations. Cooking was one of her passions, and survivors said they will always remember, and miss, the many delicious and creative meals that she prepared for them.
In addition to food, Ms. Caslin loved animals, and to the delight of her daughter, took in homeless dogs and cats to keep the family busy. In 1998, she was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer and underwent aggressive treatment. After her diagnosis, she decided to move to eastern Long Island, where her successful treatment allowed her to regain her health. To those who knew her, she was happy and outgoing and an unforgettable character. She lived one day at a time and focused her energy on her loves: food, dance and the arts, animals, tennis, and the beach. She was an avid second-hand shopper, always looking for bits of beauty, whimsy, or color to decorate her life.
She taught a “Fit Over 50” Class at the Hampton Bays Library. Even as her illness began to overtake her, she still spoke of returning to the class. She was a member of the Church of St. Rosalie and receives Masses now through the thoughtful caring of the friends she made there.
Her community and volunteer spirit extended to helping at East End Hospice, the Parrish Art Museum, the Lung Cancer Association and at public radio station 88.3, as well as serving Thanksgiving meals at the shelter.
She is survived by two children, Lauren Caslin-Runkle and Christian Caslin; and grandchildren, Forrest, Naya and Ruby.
A memorial service is being planned for a future date.
on Aug 10, 2015