Judith Ann Howard

Judy was born to Roy and Ethel Downing and grew up in Orosi, where she attended Orosi schools and built lifelong friendships. She spent many years working at the bank in Orosi, where she became a familiar and friendly face in the community before retiring after a dedicated career.

Judy married her high school sweetheart, Dennis Howard, and together they built a life centered around love, family, and shared adventures. She was a devoted wife and a loving mother to her children, Kevin Howard and Kari McCulley (Mark).

Her love only grew as her family did. She was a proud grandmother to Lacey Speck (Jeramie), Liliana Howard, and Kyle Howard (Alyssa), and a great-grandmother to Adilyn, Stone, Hallie, and Slade. Nothing made Judy happier than spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren—they never wanted for anything when Grandma was around. She never missed a single one of their events, always cheering them on and celebrating their achievements.

Judy also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Ethel Downing, and her sister, Wilda Pauls.

She had a passion for life’s simple joys. Citrus farming ran deep in her family. She loved the smell of orange blossoms and always enjoyed eating the fresh fruit her son would bring her. Judy loved riding in the classic cars and trucks she shared with Dennis, listening to 50’s classic and country-western music. Together they were active members of car clubs and participated in car shows for many years. She enjoyed taking rides to the mountains and the beach. They also enjoyed spending time together eating at their favorite places. In more recent years, Judy and Dennis especially enjoyed road tripping across the country together, traveling to Arkansas several times to visit family.

At home, Judy was known for her warm hospitality. She was a wonderful cook and baker who loved hosting holidays and bringing family together around the table. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome, well-fed, and loved.

Above all, Judy will be remembered for her kind heart and her dedication to family. The memories she created with those she loved will live on in their hearts forever.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on April 4, 2026, 10:00 am, at New Beginnings Christian Center, 826 South 1st Ave., Dinuba, with lunch to follow.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

"Don't let your heart be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am." ~ John 14:1-3 NLT