Laughter, memories, and reflection filled the northwest corner of the Liberty Diner last Wednesday afternoon as more than 38 family members, friends, and South Fallsburg Seniors gathered to celebrate an important milestone: the 108th birthday of Judy Kogan (whose birthday was on July 26).

She remains one of the club’s most beloved members, with a lifetime of stories, community service, and a positive outlook that continues to inspire those around her, especially her fellow club members.

That optimism has been especially felt by South Fallsburg Seniors Club President Annette Conklin, who described Kogan as an inspiration to those around her for decades.

“Every time I’m in a room with her, she makes me happy,” stated Conklin, speaking before party attendees. “She has been a joy to me for 20 years. She’s been my mother, my mantra. She’s my life. The woman that I look up to. When I have a problem, she’s giving me advice. She’s everything to us and the community.”

Kogan was born in Philadelphia on July 26, 1918. She entered school under the name Josephine before changing her name to Judy while in high school. She would later marry her husband, Max, and work for the U.S. Army Signal Corps before later joining the New York State Insurance Fund, where she wrote insurance policies.

The couple later settled in Loch Sheldrake, where they made their home for decades. It was there that Kogan became deeply involved in her community. With her love of reading, she helped establish the first reading room in what is now the South Fallsburg Library, a revelation that drew audible surprise from attendees at the party.

Conklin added that Kogan was also a charter member of the Loch Sheldrake Senior Club, where she became known for her desire to bring people together.

“She was a go-getter,” Conklin stated. “She was a starter, and she was dynamic.”

More than anything, Conklin said it was Kogan’s outlook on life and can-do attitude that left the greatest impression on those who have come to know her.

“Her idea of life was not to worry about anything,” recounted Conklin. “She’d get up in the morning and be happy and do whatever. That’s what she told me all the time.”

Conklin thanked Achieve Rehab and Nursing for arranging the transportation that brought Kogan to the party despite the organization’s busy schedule serving hundreds of clients.

“They were wonderful,” Conklin affirmed. “The reason why we’re having it [the party] today is because they were able to provide the transportation.”

Conklin called the South Fallsburg Seniors “a big family” and said the celebration honored not only a remarkable birthday, but also a woman whose resilience, kindness, and community spirit continue to inspire those around her.

“She’s still strong,” stated Conklin. “She’s still dynamic. She’s a survivor, and she’s still in our hearts.”