She was born August 16, 1940 in Kansas City, Missouri to Fred and Ruby Mertz. Judith moved to Amarillo in 1949, she graduated from West Texas State University. She married Jimmy Smelcer in 1961 together they raised one son James “Chris” Smelcer.They moved to Houston in 1967 were she taught at multiple schools in Spring Branch ISD. She was a dedicated teacher that taught fourth and second grade, then moved to Dallas area in 1992. Judith taught at Carrollton Farmers Branch ISD, then moved to Humble in 1996. She then retired after 38 years from teaching in 2002 and moved back to Amarillo living in Timber Creek Canyon. Judith had many passions, loved animals always hand fed the Deer in Timbercreek Canyon. She also loved collecting and displaying her antiques.
She is survived by her son James “Chris” Smelcer and wife Karen, one sister; Debbie Jackson, two grandchildren; April and Tim, four great-grandchildren; Hailey, Jackson, Wyatt, and Avery, several nieces and nephews, sister-in-law; Jean Smelcer.
Judith is preceded in death by her husband Jimmy Smelcer, parents; Fred and Ruby Mertz and one brother; Tommy Mertz.
In lieu of flowers family suggests donations to Gracie’s Project in Judith’s name. She will be missed by both her family and friends.
