Judith "Judy" A. Eddy

Judy A. Eddy, a beacon of joy and love, passed away at the age of 83 on the morning of February 4, 2026, in Holy Cross Health and Rehabilitation Center, South Bend, IN. Born on February 15, 1942, in South Bend, Judy's life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, her passion for children, and her zest for life that touched all who knew her.

The daughter of the late Ira and Lois (Yeider) Cowen, Judy grew up in a close-knit family alongside her siblings, the late Lila Trump, Betty Paluzzi, and Doug Cowen. She graduated from John Adams High School in 1959. 

It was across the street from her childhood home where she met her lifelong love, Gordon Eddy. The two were inseparable from a young age and eventually married on September 10, 1960. Judy and Gordon celebrated an incredible 65 years of marriage, filled with laughter, adventures, and an abundance of love.

Judy's heart was always with children, not only as a mother to her own three children, Kathie (Mike) Wentzel, Tammie (Bob) Meiszberg, and Rich (Pam) Eddy, but also in her professional life. She worked as a driver examiner, a crossing guard at Marshall School, and was deeply involved in youth activities as a Bluebird and Campfire leader. Her dedication to nurturing and educating young minds was evident in everything she did, including teaching archery and starting and organizing the Marshall School Fun Fair for many years.

A woman of many talents and interests, Judy enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, such as camping and mushroom hunting. She had a creative spirit, baking cakes to sell at the Farmer's Market, dressing up as a clown to bring joy to children, and crafting beautiful pieces in ceramics and sewing. Her love for capturing moments led her to be the unofficial photographer at family gatherings. Judy and Gordon were also instrumental in restarting the Donnell Conservation Club, where they invested time and energy into the community they cherished.

Judy's festive spirit shone brightly, especially during the holidays. She was known for going above and beyond in her decorating, with Halloween being her favorite, closely followed by Christmas. Her home was a hub of warmth and celebration, where she hosted countless parties that left guests with unforgettable memories.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and joy, not only to her cherished grandchildren, Stevie (Crystal) Kaufman, Katie (Alan) Bali, Michael (CC) Kaufman, Ryan (Elizabeth) Meiszberg, and Brett Meiszberg, but also to her great-grandchildren, Sophia, Anna, Ben, Rosie, Payton, and Brayden, who will carry forward her stories and the lessons she imparted. Judy is also survived by her sister, Suzy (Jack) Mechling, who will continue to honor Judy's memory.

Funeral services for Judy will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in Palmer Funeral Home - River Park Chapel, 2528 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend, IN. Friends and family are invited to gather for a time of remembrance starting at 10:00am. Following the service, Judy will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Mishawaka, where she will be surrounded by the community she so dearly loved.

Judy A. Eddy's life was a tapestry of caring, teaching, and celebrating. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of her love and enthusiasm for life will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Judy-Eddy