Judith “Judy” Elaine Smith, 82, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at her residence. Judy was born on May 7, 1944, in Springfield, Ohio, to the late Homer and Mary (Cornelius) Garver.
She graduated from Springfield South High School in 1962 and went on to enjoy a long career as a photo retoucher, dedicating many years to her work.
Judy found joy in the simple pleasures of life and, most of all, in the people she loved. She enjoyed attending church, staying active by working out at the YMCA, and participating in activities at the Senior Center. She had a generous heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand, truly someone who would give the shirt off her back to help another. Her generosity and willingness to help others touched the lives of many.
Above all, Judy cherished her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her so much happiness. She was blessed with many talents, including crocheting, knitting, and sewing. Judy also loved sharing her fun facts, helpful tricks, and clever life hacks with those around her, always having something interesting or useful to pass along. She will also be fondly remembered for her delicious homemade lasagna, which was always a favorite. Judy’s warmth, creativity, generosity, and love for those around her will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
Left to cherish Judy’s memory are her daughters, Kelly Kidd and Heidi (Mike) Pasheilich; her grandchildren, Courtney, Bridget, Justin, and Andrew; her great-grandchildren, Cypress, Jensen, Selah, Walker, and Leonidas; and her brothers, Tom (Janice) Garver and Bill (Pat) Garver.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Homer and Mary Garver.
Friends and family may call on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Galion Seventh Day , 120 Zimmerman Ave., Galion. A short service will commence at 5:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to The Domestic Violence Shelter of Richland County.
Those wishing to share a memory of Judy or send condolences to the Smith family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.
The Gompf Funeral Service – Galion Chapel, 303 Portland Way N., Galion OH, 44833, is honored to serve the family of Judith “Judy” Elaine Smith.
Funeral Home: Gompf Funeral Service – Galion Chapel
Website: www.masfh.com