Judy Sawyer Curenton

Judy Sawyer Curenton, loving wife and mother, passed away peacefully at home in Pensacola, FL on January 4, 2025. Judy was born in New Brockton, AL on May 14, 1943 in what many refer to as the "good old days." She was raised in a wonderful, loving family and she cherished the fond memories she created with her siblings, cousins and friends. Judy earned her degree in Elementary Education from Troy State University, where she was crowned homecoming queen in 1965. She wed her husband, Larue, in 1970, and he proved to be a devoted partner and exceptional caregiver especially as her health deteriorated in later years.

A consummate entertainer, Judy could sing three-part harmonies or play, by ear, your favorite tune on the piano at a moment’s notice. She always had perfectly applied lipstick and a beautiful smile on her face, even in her final days of life. Judy loved people of all types and ages. She channeled her talents and nurturing nature into her work as an elementary school teacher and her contributions to her church. This included mission trips, teaching Sunday School and Girls in Action, playing the piano, and singing in the choir. She loved her church family at First Baptist Church, Crestview and Heights Baptist Church, Pensacola. Her friends remained faithful and supportive to her, sprinkling her life with cards, phone calls and visits and this meant the world to her.

Judy is survived by her husband of 54 years, Dr. Larue Curenton; her children Ashley (Brett) Turner from Pensacola, FL, Shannon Curenton, and Nathan Curenton of Santa Fe, NM; her grandchildren Eli Turner, Jake Turner, and Alex (Martin) Ruiz; three great-grandchildren; her brother Jerry Sawyer; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her dear friend Betty Jordan, all of whom loved her very much. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Gladys Sawyer; sister, Evelyn Baumann; and brother, Michael Sawyer.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Gentiva Hospice for the outstanding care they provided for the past two years. A special thank you is also extended to her chaplain, Trudy, for the music and spiritual support she provided to Judy every Friday morning.

Judy’s celebration of life will take place on Friday, January 10, 2025 at Heights Baptist Church, 600 Pickens Ave, Pensacola, FL 32503. The family will receive friends from 9:30 until 10:30 a.m., with services beginning at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Bayview Memorial Park, 3351 Scenic Highway, Pensacola, FL 32503. A reception will follow at Heights Baptist Church and all are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation in Judy’s memory to Heights Baptist Church or to your favorite charity.