Judy M. Douglas, 81, of Madison, Wis., formerly of Tecumseh and Lincoln, Neb., and Monroe, Wis., died of lung disease Sunday, June 28, 2020, at Oak Park Place in Madison, with her children by her side: Jean via Skype and Kathi in person. Born Oct. 25, 1938, in Tecumseh, daughter of Helen and Judson Benjamin Douglas Jr.. Graduated from Tecumseh (Neb.) High School and the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She married John McElhaney on Jan. 21, 1961; they had two daughters and divorced in 1976. Judy was active in the community of Monroe, helping found Ding-a-Dong nursery school at St. John's United Church of Christ, participating in plays with Monroe Theater Guild and in Monroe Woman's Club activities. She enjoyed teaching college English, high school French, piano and swimming. In Madison, she helped found Cornucopia, was a member of Arbor Covenant Church, Off the Square and Mensa clubs. She enjoyed music, art, theater, singing, reading, children and animals, especially cats, dogs and horses. Previous resident of All Saints Neighborhood in Madison. She loved her longtime Nebraska friendships. She nourished cheer and relationships by sending greeting cards, often featuring her artwork. Her warm smile will be greatly missed. She kept a positive attitude and a focus on forgiveness, gratitude, faith and love despite many challenges. Some of her sayings that were very "Mom" included "don't let anyone 'should' you" and "God loves us and wants us to be happy." Survived by brother, Paul of Tecumseh; sister-in-law, Joyce Douglas of Lincoln; daughters, Jean McElhaney of Auckland, New Zealand, and Kathi (McElhaney) Edwards of Rockford, Ill.; and an amazing circle of loving friends. Predeceased by parents; grandparents; and brother, Jud. Thank you to OPP and Agrace Hospice for their care. Memorial service will be held at 5:30 p.m., on Friday, July 17, 2020 at Arbor Covenant Church, Madison with a visitation to be held from 4:30 p.m., until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the church, Threshold Singers or Madison Mounted Police.
