Judith Ann Keller

Born April 5, 1962, in Cleveland, Ohio, Judy was the eldest of five children. With such a large family, each of the siblings settled into a specific role. David was the favorite, Kathy the tattle tale, Kristen the whiney one, and Cricket the quiet one. Judy was the bossy one, the mom to all. Her sisters remember her as a caring sounding board and trusting confidant. Judy was active in drama club and performed in every school play during high school. While never playing the lead, she found satisfaction in supporting roles and singing with the choir. Judy was also a talented artist. She had a craft room overflowing with craft projects and jewelry-making supplies. She gave her friends and family beautiful handmade items that will always be treasured for the care and affection she put into creating them.

Judy attended Solon High School, The Ohio State University, and St. Vincent Charity Nursing School. Her passion for helping others led to a distinguished career in nursing at The Cleveland Clinic and Atrium Health in Charlotte. She touched countless lives in the interventional radiology and surgical intensive care units during her forty-year career.

Judy’s nurturing spirit was also present at home. She loved motherhood above all and started many beloved family traditions. Her children fondly recall baking the family’s signature pistachio cake with her every Christmas. They also enjoyed an elegant family New Year’s Eve dinner, complete with roasted lamb, twice-baked potatoes, and sparkling grape juice in champagne glasses. As midnight approached, the family would eat chocolate cake with their hands to complete the celebration.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Patricia Nero and sister, Kathy.

She is survived by her husband Ray, children Michelle, Charles (CJ), Cody, daughter-in-law Danielle, and grandchildren Theo and Ollie. She is also survived by her siblings and their spouses, David and Karen Nero, Kristen and Jason Galek, and Cricket and Jeff Herman. She will be especially missed by her nieces and nephews James, Patrick, Caitlin and Bryan Nero, and Addison and Evan Galek.

Per Judy’s request, there will not be a formal service. The family hopes you will take a moment to reflect on her role in your life and share in their sorrow at her loss.

Our family would like to send a special thank you to the family, friends, and coworkers who kept a stream of food, gifts, flowers, and loving thoughts and encouragement coming during Judy’s battle with cancer. Your loving support never failed to bring her hope and added determination, even during the darkest days. We are so grateful to all of you.