Judith Ann Southern

Judy Southern - beloved mother, Oma, great-grandmother, passed away on June 29, 2026. Judy was pre-deceased by husband Norm Southern and son Cameron Garland. She is survived by her daughter Karen Garland, six grandchildren: Laurissa Wannenwetsch, Brittany (Alyssa) Garland, Bryan (Nicola) Post, Graham Rossmore, Riley (Yesenia) Post, and Leah (Eric) Laidlaw; and four great-grandchildren. Judy was a favourite aunt to her many nieces and nephews and had an extensive community of friends and extended family.

Judy’s greatest joy was her family. She had a playful spirit and endless energy and was always the first to join a game, never hesitating to get soaked on the bumper boats or dive into whatever fun adventure was underway. Her room full of toys for visiting grandchildren, with the building straws being a particular favourite, inspired hours of imaginative play and treasured memories.

For more than 30 years, Judy dedicated herself to teaching Grade One students in School District 62. She had a remarkable gift for making every child feel valued and capable. Her classroom was a place of encouragement, learning, and joy, and her influence extended far beyond the school walls. Colleagues regarded her as a trusted friend, while countless students and families remember her as a teacher who helped shape their earliest school experiences with patience, kindness, and care.

After retiring, Judy and her husband Norm made their home in Qualicum Beach, where she devoted herself to the Qualicum Beach Seniors Centre. For more than 25 years, she was one of the Centre's most dedicated volunteers and leaders, serving two terms as President and helping to create the vibrant, welcoming community that members enjoy today.

Judy's warmth and enthusiasm became part of the Centre's identity. Whether greeting members at the door, decorating for the seasons, organizing activities, helping in the kitchen, supporting volunteers, or encouraging others to become involved, she was always ready to lend a hand.

Judy loved to travel and explore the world alongside her beloved husband, Norm. Together they spent a memorable year travelling throughout Europe, embracing new cultures, experiences, and friendships. Closer to home, some of her favourite destinations were Death Valley and Bryce Canyon, places whose beauty and grandeur matched her appreciation for life's adventures.

Never one to shy away from adventure, at age 80 Judy even took part in a skydiving fundraiser to support the community she loved. Whatever the task, she approached it with energy, courage, and a sense of fun.

Judy touched countless lives because she invested herself wholeheartedly in the people and communities around her. She will be remembered for her trusted leadership, joyful spirit, generous heart, adventurous nature, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and appreciated.

Though she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, colleagues, and the many people whose lives she touched, her legacy lives on in the communities she helped build, the children she taught, and the family she loved so dearly.

Judy's warmth will continue to brighten the lives of all who knew her.