Judith Markelz

Judith Markelz passed away on 8 April 2026, joining her parents in eternal rest after a remarkable life defined by service, compassion, and unwavering devotion to others. A gifted teacher, tireless advocate, and steadfast supporter of those in need, she dedicated her life to uplifting both children and adults, as well as the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines she so deeply cared for.

The daughter of LtCol Robert and Mary Ellis Holdt, Judith spent her early years traveling the world in service to her father’s military career as an Air Force Chaplain, an experience that shaped her lifelong commitment to the military community. She continued that journey as the devoted wife of 53 years to Colonel Stephen Markelz. She graduated from Misawa High School in Japan and later from the teacher education program at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, where she met Stephen. Together, they built a life grounded in love, resilience, and service, raising their two sons, Brian and David.

Throughout their many Army assignments, Judith taught within the DoD School System and served with the American Red Cross, always finding ways to care for and strengthen military families. She furthered her education by earning a Specialist in Education degree from George Washington University. Her leadership extended to chairing the Junior Enlisted Support Group at Fort Bliss, Texas, and later, from 2003 to 2019, serving as the Director of the Warrior and Family Support Center at Fort Sam Houston.

Judith will be especially remembered for her fierce and unwavering support of wounded warriors and their families at Brooke Army Medical Center. During the height of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, she stood as a relentless advocate—fearless in her pursuit of what she believed was right, and steadfast in ensuring that no family felt alone. She never backed away from the fights she thought worth fighting and was a powerful voice for others. Through her vision and determination, she rallied the San Antonio community and beyond to help build the Warrior and Family Support Center, creating not just a facility, but a place of healing, dignity, and hope.

Above all, Judith’s greatest pride and enduring legacy was her family. She was a devoted mother to Brian and David, and a loving, ever-present grandmother to Cora, Jordi, Maddox, Santiago, and Jace. Her strength, generosity, and boundless love shaped their lives and will continue to guide them.

In recognition of her extraordinary service, Judith was inducted into the Order of Military Medical Merit and awarded the Mary Walker Service Medal.

Patrons of the center remember her fierce spirit, her unwavering sense of justice, and her deep, abiding love for her family and the countless lives she touched.

Interment and a graveside service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on 21 April 2026 at 1130 followed by a reception at the home of her son Brian and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth. In lieu of flowers friends may donate to the San Antonio Food Bank or the Wounded Warrior Project.