Judy Lee Huff

Judy’s early years were filled with adventure as she moved with her family, following her father, Edward Collins’ distinguished military service in the Air Force. At age two, Judy, her mother, Ruth Anna (Swingle) Collins, and her sister, Peggy, left the States and relocated to Guam, where her father was stationed at Anderson Air Force Base. From there, her life took her to Caribou, Maine, and numerous other locations where the family lived, including Saudi Arabia, Massachusetts, Syracuse, Goose Bay in Labrador, and to Long Island, New York. She graduated from Westhampton Beach Senior High School in 1966, shortly before marrying Earl Huff on July 15 of that year. Together, they built a life as a military family, traveling the world to places like Arizona, Mississippi, Hahn Air Force Base in Germany, Washington, and Florida.

While in Arizona, Judy and Earl welcomed their daughter, Jennifer, and their son Brian was born during their assignment in Germany. Throughout her life, Judy balanced her roles as a dedicated wife and mother with civilian office work and supported her husband’s military calling. After moving to Florida, Judy embarked on a career with GTE, from which she eventually retired after many years of service at GTE/Verizon.

A devoted animal lover, Judy had a special place in her heart for horses, owning several throughout her lifetime. She was also passionate about cats, particularly her beloved Persians. In recent years, she adopted two rescue cats, showing her commitment to giving animals in need a home.

Judy was a beacon of warmth and joy to her family and friends. Her welcoming smile and kind nature had a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Active in her community, she was an avid bowler in her younger years and cherished the opportunity to travel and embark on cruises with her family. She loved eating out and socializing and enjoyed movies, cards, and board games with family and friends.

Judy is predeceased by her mother, Ruth, who passed away in 1971, and her father, Major Edward Collins, who died in 2007. She is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Earl; her loving children, Jennifer and Brian; and her siblings, Peggy Bumpus, Vicki McKnight, Ed Collins, Tom Collins, and Lori Collins. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and family members from Ohio, California, and upstate New York, all of whom will remember her fondly.

Judy’s bright spirit and loving heart will be dearly missed by her family, who will forever hold her close in their hearts and minds. A memorial ceremony will be held at the National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, with details to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the St. Francis Society Animal Rescue in Tampa in Judy's honor. (https://www.stfrancisrescue.org/#/rescue-ui/help-our-cause). Friends and loved ones are encouraged to share memories and tributes to celebrate her life. Judy will always be remembered for her infectious laugh, bright smile, her love of animals, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.