Wellesley and beyond is heartbroken this holiday season following the tragic news that resident Dr. Judith Pinsker died on Sunday in a hiking accident while with family and friends in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Reports of the accident, which took place on Frankenstein Cliff Trail in Hart’s Location, NH., shook Wellesley as word spread on Monday morning following an announcement by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.
Dr. Pinsker, a 57-year-old mother of two who worked as a primary care physician at Tufts Medical Center, loved to spend time outdoors with her family and friends, according to her obituary. Her interests also included playing flute with the Wellesley Town Band.
She is survived by her husband Dr. Benjamin Smith, and sons Eric and Jeffrey Pinsker-Smith.
Smith told the Boston Globe that his wife of 27 years “was a force of nature. She maintained so many different activities in addition to her work.”
Swellesley readers who knew Dr. Pinsker or only heard of the tragedy shared their thoughts:
“I’ve known Judy since second grade,” wrote one friend. “She made her academic and social marks early and never stopped. But most of us loved her for her dry wit, equally dry yet profound philosophical thoughts, devotion and generosity to friends, and yes, her many and varied accomplishments.”
A patient of Dr. Pinsker’s wrote: “A patient could not have had a more compassionate primary care doctor. I will miss her very much.”
A visitation will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St. (Rt.16), Wellesley on Friday, Dec. 28, from 4-8pm. A private service will follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Timmy Global Health at 22 East 22nd Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46202.
We extend our condolences to family and friends.
I’m deeply sad for the loss of Dr. Pinsker. She was so caring and kind. She was my primary doctor for the last 5 years. She used to talk to me in Spanish and gave me such good care which made me feel reassured.
I hope her family finds solace in this difficult time.
i just go this letter on 1/17/19 that my special doctor for more than 20 years she died on holidays, i saw her on dec.12 for my routine apt and we had special time sharing about myself and so on, i will missed her she was one of the best one on my entire life ,remember bringing her a little pair of earrings that did bought for her a long time ago and brought on that date as a thanking her for been always there for me. many time i always asked her about her children the boys is like i know them and sending my blessings, Rest in peace my dear friend Judith, she loves to speak to me in spanish she love the language. she reminds me to make an apt to come and see her in 6 months???
I am still in shock. This morning i received a letter from the hospital saying that my dear Dr Pinsker was not longer with us. I can’t believe it. She was my doctor for 17 years. Sweet, professional, kind and very patient. Always checking upon my health. I will terribly miss her. My thoughts are with her family.. 🌷
I’ve known Judy since second grade. She made her academic and social marks early and never stopped. But most of us loved her for her dry wit, equally dry yet profound philosophical thoughts, devotion and generosity to friends, and yes, her many and varied accomplishments. So glad she was with many she loved when she died.
Jennifer, thanks for sharing your memories, and sorry for the loss of your friend. Bob & Deborah
A patient could not have had a more compassionate primary care doctor. I will miss her very much.
Michael, Thank you for sharing this