Judy was born in Detroit, Michigan, but grew up in the St. Louis area of Missouri as the 3rd of 4 children. She is preceded in death by her father Kenneth, mother Dorothy, brother Gerald, sister Joan, and brother Gene. She is survived by her husband Rick Cole, sister-in-law Carolyn Kwentus and brother-in-law John Kluge. Judy was the Mother of Kent, Kevin, and Chris (Sherri) House, and Granny of Zachary, Taylor (Tim), and Jordan.
She married her first husband, Edward Gary House, in 1961 and gave birth to their third child in 1966. The two were divorced in the late 1970’s and she eventually met and married Richard Cole and moved to Michigan in 1980.
She was deeply devoted to her family and took great pride in sharing their activities and accomplishments. Judy was passionate about helping people. In Kirkwood, Missouri she participated in the effort to bring a special needs program to the public school system. She created a chance for community for those who were widowed by holding monthly dinner parties in her home. Using her “white-haired church lady” persona and true determination, she charmed people into supporting Hope United Church of Christ’s Food Pantry Program through donations and volunteer work increasing the program to providing food to over 100 families per month. She was always able to accomplish what she set her mind to. After once running her own business creating and selling ceramics, she continued to provide an outlet for her creative side via cooking, baking, home improvements, and gardening.
A memorial service for Judy will be held Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 11:00 am at Hope United Church of Christ, 35127 Garfield Road in Clinton Township. Friends may visit the church beginning at 10:00 am on Thursday. Service is also available on www.hopeuccmi.com click view here once at website.
If desired, donations may be made to Hope United Church of Christ Food Pantry or Turning Point.
