Trudy Kathy Poirier, a woman whose life was marked by devotion, compassion, and a zest for exploration, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, one day after celebrating her 86th birthday. Born on June 16, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, Trudy's journey was one that embraced the fullness of life, weaving together threads of academic achievement, service to others, global adventure, and cherished family bonds.

Trudy’s early years were shaped by the values instilled by her late parents, Joseph and Frieda Funk. Her intellectual curiosity and leadership blossomed at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where she distinguished herself not only through scholastic diligence but also as a dynamic leader, serving as the president of her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. This formative experience laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to nurturing young minds, and after graduation, she became a gifted Speech Therapist. With a profound love for her vocation, Trudy worked with children spanning preschool to junior high, addressing their communicative challenges with patience, skill, and encouragement.

Her commitment to education extended into graduate studies at Northern Illinois University. Following her family's relocation in 1979 to Ridgefield, Connecticut, she resumed her studies at Western Connecticut State College. But it was not merely the pursuit of knowledge that defined Trudy, rather the way she applied it to uplift others. In 1983, she embraced the spiritual calling of becoming a Stephen Minister, offering compassionate care within her church community, and by 2000, she had ascended to a leadership role, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps of empathy and service.

Trudy’s spirit was as adventurous as it was kind. Alongside her beloved husband, Norm, she traversed continents, living for periods in Asia and Europe. Through these immersive experiences, she cultivated a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, continually expanding her understanding of the world’s rich tapestry. Retirement brought the couple to Hilton Head Island, where Trudy’s love of community shone brightly. Known for her warmth and hospitality, she famously hosted an annual Oktoberfest party that became a much-anticipated occasion for friends and neighbors alike. Her passions included the game of bridge, participation in several book clubs, and an avid enthusiasm for golf, where she notably claimed victory in several tournaments—a testament to her competitive spirit and joy in personal mastery.

In later years, Trudy and Norman moved closer to the Atlanta area, a move motivated by the desire to be near family. Here, she delighted in the company of her immediate loved ones and continued to weave new memories through travel and togetherness.  Trudy died on June 17,2026 at home after a brief illness.

Trudy is survived by her devoted husband, Norm Poirier, who stood steadfastly beside her throughout their shared life. She is also cherished by their children, Kristen (and her husband Trey) and Rob (and his wife Kathy), as well as by four treasured grandchildren: Rebecca, Andrew, Katie, and Will. Each carried forward her legacy of kindness, inquiry, and joy.

The life of Trudy Kathy Poirier stands as a luminous example of a soul well-lived—marked by service, enriched by discovery, and anchored by love. Her memory will forever be a blessing to those who knew her, an enduring echo of grace and generosity.

Family request donations be made in Trudy's name at https://www.alz.org/ The Alzheimer's Foundation.

Care of Trudy has been entrusted to In Their Honor Funeral and Cremation Providers.