Judith Mahn Serafin

Judith Mahn Serafin, a remarkable woman whose life was a symphony of love, laughter, and heartfelt connections, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on December 19, 1943, Judy’s spirit illuminated the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

An embodiment of unconditional love and acceptance, Judy was known for her kindness and unwavering support. The eldest of five siblings, Judy was a nurturing soul from the start. She was adept at being more than a sibling, mother, grandmother, aunt, and great aunt—she was a dear, generous, patient, and fiercely dependable friend. Her intelligence and wit, coupled with a wonderful, irreverent sense of humor, made her delightful company to all. 

Judy's work began as a stay-at-home mom, cherishing every moment with her children before becoming a Kindergarten teaching assistant at their elementary school, joking that she would follow them to high school. For over 25 years, she served as the office manager and bookkeeper at a family owned business, Dotten Collision, in Madison Heights, MI where she made long-time friends and was well connected in the community. In 2006, Judy was enticed to relocate to Carrboro, NC by both grandchildren and a position at Duke Medical Center where she served until her retirement in 2012. 

Her home in the woods was a true reflection of her nurturing spirit, as Judy dedicated her days to feeding the deer (illegally, of course) and keeping her bird feeder filled while battling the squirrels that dug up her bulbs and entertained her cat. A vegetarian because she couldn’t bring herself to eat anything with a "face" (although somehow salmon was exempt). Gram's house was known for the magically stocked candy drawer that always had your favorites and a relaxed, live-in feel with "woodsy lighting" where you were always welcome for as long as you wanted or needed to stay. Judy loved to celebrate birthdays and Christmas and had a penchant for giving the most unexpected and unusual gifts...with a grin. Judy's pride shone brightest in her family. She adored spending time with young relatives—including decorating gingerbread houses, baking monkey bread, and attending recitals and graduations. She took great interest in their education and adventures, always ready to offer her wisdom on outfits and prom dresses, and was well known for asking a thousand questions.

Music was the heartbeat of Judy's life—it was her solace, her joy, and her therapy. A devoted fan of Elvis and lover of classic artists like Bob Seger, Neil Diamond, and Tom Petty, she embraced both nostalgic tunes and newer sounds from up-and-coming musicians, particularly those who were young, cute, and male. Judy was a pop-culture enthusiast, with recommendations for good movies, shows, and books, in the know on musicians, actors, comedians and the Royal family, and (often to her loved one's chagrin) sending her favorite finds from TikTok with great enthusiasm.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Daniel Serafin, and daughter-in-law, Angela Serafin; her daughter, Jill Serafin Compton, and son-in-law, Gregory Inman; her former son-in-law, Scott Compton; and her cherished grandchildren: Anna Compton, and fiancee, Dustin Starnes, Shuyler Serafin, Jonathan Compton, and "bonus" granddaughters Easton and Ella Catherine Inman. Additionally, Judith leaves behind her sister, Rosemary Porter; her brother, Joseph Mahn, and sister-in-law, Dolores Mahn; and numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, alongside many lifelong friends who were touched by her warmth and kindness. Judith will also be missed by her feline companion, Emily, and her grand dogs, Millie, Piper, and Beaumont.

Judith was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Rosemary Mahn Succarde; her father, Joseph Mahn; her brother, James Mahn; and her sister, Pamela Mahn.

As we celebrate Judith’s extraordinary life, we remember a woman who not only lived vibrantly but also touched countless hearts with her grace, humor, and love. Her memory will forever resonate in the beautiful melodies of family gatherings, the warmth of shared moments, and in every act of kindness that reflects her legacy.

Natural burial services for Judith will be Monday, January 5, 2026 at 2:00 at Bluestem Cemetery, 1900 Hurdle Mills Road, Cedar Grove, NC 27231. Please join us for an open-house celebration of life following burial services at Jill & Greg's residence from 4:30-8:00 p.m. 

Please send flowers to the home of Jill Compton or consider making a donation in Judy's name to the SPCA of Wake County, the American Heart Association, or Carolina Tiger Rescue.