Judith Ann Smith
Judith Ann Smith (Judy to all that knew her), loving wife and mother of three, passed away on June 3, 2023 at the age of 82.
Judy was born April 29, 1941 in New Haven, Connecticut, and graduated from Hamden High School. On May 16, 1964, she married Richard “Dick” Smith, beginning a marriage of nearly 60 years. Dick and Judy moved to Oak Ridge, Tn., where they started their family and loved and raised three children - Rich, Kristen and Robin. The family moved to Chattanooga, Tn. in 1986. Judy worked as a Development Director and school nurse at St. Jude School, but was a de facto guidance counselor, and friend, to all the students who adored her, until her retirement in 2006.
Judy was mothering by nature and always generous with her time, caring more about others than herself. She also dedicated many years of her life in service to her community. This included being the co-founder of the Chattanooga Ulster Project, and working with many charities, such as the Chattanooga Partnership and the Community Kitchen. In her free time, Judy loved to travel, with Maine being a particular favorite. She was a Master Gardener for over 10 years, and loved camping and baking for anyone and everyone. Judy loved dogs as well, and rescued multiple Cairn Terriers over the years. She was an active member of St Jude Church. Judy would always light up the room with her warm smile, that was given to everyone she knew, or those she just met. Every person and life experience added to Judy’s personal quilt of life.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Evelyn and Herbert, and is survived by her husband Dick;, her children ; Rich (Tricia) Smith, Kristen (Zach) Prophater and Robin (Jeremy) Grant. She was also a doting Grandma (her favorite role) to Tyler, Wilder and Sawyer Prophater, Lily and Cooper Grant, and Braeden, Gavin and Owen Smith.
A family friend said it best when she described Judy as “a light that left part of her with everyone she met”.
A visitation will be held Tuesday, June 20, from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at St. Jude Parish Life Center. Memorial Mass will follow at 12 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the St. Jude School, Alzheimer's Association or Hospice Care Center of Chattanooga.
Arrangements entrusted to Lane Funeral Home, 601 Ashland Terrace, Chattanooga, Tn. 37415, 423 877-3524, lanefh.com.