John Thomas Ouderkirk, Jr.

John T. Ouderkirk, Jr., “Oudi”, 65, died Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at the Westerly Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Sally Hanson, to whom he was married for over 31 years.

Oudi was a lifelong resident of Westerly, having been born in Ithaca, New York to Helen Brown of Tecumseh, Michigan and the late John T. Ouderkirk, Sr. He is also survived by his brother Eric, of Juneau, Alaska.

He was a graduate of Hamilton College and earned his law degree at Western New England School of Law in Springfield, MA.

After passing the Massachusetts Bar, John worked in the Massachusetts Court system. He was best known as a child or parent advocate. Later he did briefs for the Massachusetts Appeals Court, United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit and the Supreme Court of the United States.

As a willing volunteer, he served as an active member of the USCG Auxiliary, Point Judith, Flotilla #79, CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), and the Westerly Amateur Radio Team. Oudi was also a lifetime member of the Westerly Yacht Club, member of the Westerly Elks Lodge #678, the Rhode Island Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, and Clan Buchanan. He was well known in the Scottish community as he was involved with many of activities and festivals. He also enjoyed playing the bagpipes.

A celebration of Oudi’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Westerly Elks Lodge #678, 1 Dixon Street, Westerly, RI 02891 (juvenile diabetes).

Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home, 121 Main Street, Westerly, RI 02891 is assisting Sally with arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.buckler-johnston.com.