In 2000, Judy was called as Young Women President in the South Jordan Parkway Stake. She called me and Laura Wall as her counselors and Tracy Evans as secretary. That began the experience of a lifetime for me. Judy led with the Spirit and with intention, with great energy and love. She had a wonderful way with a smile, a happy and sincere hello, and a firm grasp of the hand that brought us along. It was her personal way of linking arms in the work of the Lord.
Judy knew the scriptures well and went to the scriptures and prayer often for guidance and direction. She reminded me of the importance of spending time in the scriptures.
I remember how fast and efficiently she worked in the kitchen. She could prepare a large meal with ease and was so fast! Having fast hands in the kitchen became one of my goals.
At one of our Stake Young Women’s camps as we sat among the pine trees in Brighton, Utah, Judy spoke of how God blesses us immediately when we turn to Him. She used the scripture Alma 34:31 “… if ye will repent and harden not your hearts, immediately shall the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you.” That created a shift for me personally and I began to trust that God’s love and acceptance was closer than I appreciated.
When Keo passed away, she spoke of her faith and trust in Jesus Christ. She and Keo had served as mission leaders and been faithful to the Lord for many years. She had built up some assumptions of blessings that were coming to them through their faithfulness. Most were stripped away when Keo was diagnosed with cancer and it eventually took his life in spite of the prayers and pleadings of many across the world. She said that the superfluous in her spiritual foundation had been knocked away and now she found herself on a very small but very firm foundation. From 1 Nephi 11:17 “I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things.” From multiple scriptures, the principle that God can make all things work together for our good. This from D&C 90:24: “Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good.”
I remember Judy and David’s backyard wedding ceremony and the lovely Hawaiian wedding dance. You could feel so much love among family and friends as they began their life together. David has been such a blessing for Judy and she for him. Hearing about all the travel, hiking, skiing, missions and more that they experienced together inspires me to do the same.
Judy’s simple and very strong faith has helped me to develop a deeper faith in Jesus Christ, His power and His love for us. We aren’t always blessed in ways we would like or expect, but we are always blessed by God.
Thank you for all the stories and memories and beautiful music at her funeral service. I loved being reminded of her goodness and energy and love. I appreciated learning more about her beautiful life. She continues to be a mentor and dear friend. I am grateful that Judy is a part of my life.