Judith "Judy" Ann Smith

Judith Ann Smith, age 81, ran joyfully into the arms of her Lord and Savior Tuesday, August 12, 2025. The youngest daughter of the late Rev. Lucian David Smith, and the late Betty Gaye (née Gaydoschak), she is preceded in death by her beloved eldest sister Betty Lu Bendeke and her grandniece Bethany Hope Conner. She is survived by her sister, Sandra Conner and husband, Jack; her former spouse, Dr. John Findley, DDS; two nephews and their families; and her incredible Delta Airlines family. A fiercely independent spirit, Judy explored the world on her terms. 

Born in Ashland, Kentucky with an insatiable curiosity and a boundless heart, Judy lived her life with a rare blend of curiosity, compassion, and flair. From childhood she developed interests, convictions and curiosity that compelled a journey without limits. It is said she walked earlier than most children, and she ran soon thereafter. When running wasn’t enough for Judy, she literally learned to fly. Steadfast in the character of loving parents and courage instilled from the foundation of a wonderful household, Judy was not content to let the world come to her. Rather, she vigorously and pursued life wherever it took her. 

Soon after graduating Memphis’ Treadwell High School, Judy attended flight attendant academy, a stepping stone that launched a five-decade career with Delta Airlines that saw her visit wonders and explore cultures across six continents. She welcomed friend and stranger alike with a warm smile and an open invitation. Judy always found time to listen to a friend, to visit someone in need. While she maintained a calm and composed demeanor, there were other sides to her; in her kitchen she transformed into a whirlwind of activity. That room was a haven where aromas of homemade recipes teased the nose, and where she tamed a flurry of motions and ingredients into marvelous creations. Judy's house was the epicenter around which family and friends gathered. The consummate hostess, she was everywhere all the time, including everyone, never missing a detail. In our family, Thanksgiving was not a proper Thanksgiving until we had gathered at her table. For decades she alone prepared and served an elaborate meal, quietly accepting the gratitude we offered, humbled and blessed to serve four generations around her dining table. Her contagious, childlike spirit made every Christmas morning a wonder. Judy’s presents were always exquisitely wrapped and personal, and Judy presided with charm and glee, confident in her Christmas socks, her Santa hat dangling at a jaunty angle. Somehow, Santa always delivered the toys the kids were hoping to get; Santa always remembered the right color and style for her sisters; Santa always knew the right sentiment for her parents. Easter Sundays always brought our family together at her house and it always culminated in family’s youngest scrambling across her property in search of Easter Eggs. Despite the kids’ age and size difference, Judy ‘magically’ ensured all Easter baskets were evenly filled. 

Judy lived a life of intense vibrancy and impact. From humble beginnings as a minister’s daughter, Judy found her way to every corner of the world. The composed and elegant demeanor framed an eager smile of one who knew the fullness of joy and was eager to share with those around her. She lived every day as only she would live. Judy lived fully and loved fully here and we rejoice knowing she has been welcomed in His presence for eternity. Judith Ann Smith leaves a legacy of kindness, curiosity, and compassion. We who mourn her passing will deeply miss her, but we will see her in the lives she touched and we will sense her presence in the love she so generously gave as a compassionate servant spirit, a wonderful friend, and as a loving family member.