Watch the Replay of Judy’s Celebration of Life

Judy’s Life Journey

On May 28, 2026, Judy peacefully began her next great adventure.

Those who knew Judy knew she was never one to sit still. She believed life was meant to be experienced, explored, and embraced with curiosity, laughter, and an open heart. She often said she could have chosen a different path, one filled with careful planning, saving, and preparation for retirement, but she never regretted choosing experiences instead.

And what a life she lived.

Judy was a traveler, an adventurer, a seeker, a storyteller, and above all, a lover of life. Whether she was walking the beaches of South Padre Island with her beloved dog Simba, exploring the mystical beauty of Mount Shasta, enjoying the charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea, attending conferences with some of the world’s leading thinkers, or wandering through the landscapes of Africa, Judy collected experiences the way others collect possessions.

Her travels carried her across the United States and around the world. She lived in France, journeyed throughout Europe, and visited Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, Peru, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, and Tanzania. Africa, in particular, held a special place in her heart, touching her soul in ways she often spoke about.

Judy treasured the simple joys just as much as the grand adventures. She loved Santa Fe’s Indian Markets, hot springs in Thermopolis, road trips through Colorado, beautiful meals shared with friends, Native flute music drifting through hotel lobbies, and discovering extraordinary people in unexpected places.

Music was another great love in her life. She found inspiration and joy through countless concerts and performances, carrying the melodies and memories with her wherever she went.

Professionally, Judy built a remarkable and unconventional career. From her work with the United Nations Association, to serving alongside the renowned Rev. Ike, to helping create international seminars for Merrill Lynch, Judy brought passion, excellence, and a unique ability to connect with people. Through ventures such as The Wedding Guide, Your Hometown Magazine, and later her own platform, Jazz Up Your Life with Judy, she spent years encouraging others, sharing wisdom, and helping people improve their lives.

Yet if you asked Judy what mattered most, she likely would not have listed titles or accomplishments. She would have spoken about relationships, conversations, the people she met along the way, and the animals she loved so deeply.

Her beloved dogs, Simba and Ariel, were among her greatest companions and teachers. Judy’s love for animals was profound, and one of her dreams was to create programs that would help rescue animals heal from fear, anxiety, and trauma. She believed deeply in the healing power of animals and never lost her connection to the ranch upbringing that shaped her.

Judy approached life with humor, authenticity, and a refreshing refusal to take herself too seriously. Even while contemplating life’s biggest questions, she could find a way to make others laugh. Her wit, playful spirit, and ability to find joy in unexpected places were gifts she shared freely.

Near the end of her reflections on life, Judy summed it up best:

“It’s been generally a great ride.”

And it truly was.

Judy is survived by her beloved dog, Ariel; her brother, Dr. Jim, his wife Adriann, and his children, Katie, Scott, and Kellie; her niece, Stacey; countless friends, colleagues, fellow travelers, and kindred spirits whose lives were enriched by her presence. She was preceded in death by her sister, Jacques; her nephew, Andy; and her beloved companion Simba.

Judy leaves behind stories, laughter, memories, and the reminder that life is meant to be lived fully, boldly, and with gratitude.

Though her earthly journey has ended, those who knew and loved her can still hear her encouraging them to take the trip, follow their curiosity, stop and enjoy the view, laugh often, and never postpone joy.

May her spirit travel onward with the same wonder, freedom, and enthusiasm that guided her throughout this remarkable life.

With love, gratitude, and remembrance, we celebrate Judy and the extraordinary journey she shared with us all.

Video Tributes

Take a moment to journey through Judy’s life through these special video tributes celebrating the adventures, memories, and moments that made her who she was.