Judy Schicktanz Smith

Judy Smith, 83, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas, with her devoted husband Jay Aubra Smith Jr. and loving daughter Sandy by her side. Born in Peoria, Illinois on April 27, 1942, Judy spent her formative years in Junction City, Kansas, where she cultivated a lifelong love of learning and community. She attended Stevens College and later the University of Arizona, forging friendships and values that would guide her throughout her life.

In 1962, Judy married Jay, beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together they raised three children: Sandy, Scott, and Stephanie, instilling in them the importance of kindness, creativity, and resilience.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Jay Aubra Smith Jr.; her daughter Sandy; her son Scott and his wife Sloan, along with their children Maddie, Julia, and Zander; and her daughter Stephanie and her husband Fred, and their children Austin (wife Kara), Linzi, and Shae, as well as her great-granddaughter Reina. Judy is also survived by her brother Tom and was preceded in death by her brother Bill.

Judy’s life was marked by movement and connection. She lived in all over the eastern States, embracing each new place with warmth and enthusiasm. She was deeply involved in her communities, especially through the P.E.O. Sisterhood, church circles, the Red Hat clubs, and her church choirs, where her voice and spirit lifted others in song and fellowship.

A passionate bridge player and a gifted organizer, Judy hosted a beloved home craft event for many years in Florida, bringing together neighbors and friends in celebration of handmade beauty. Her passions were doing crafts ,sewing, antiquing and reading. She adored her dachshunds, each one a cherished companion, and found joy in their loyal presence.

Judy was a remarkable mother, wife, sister, and friend. Her generosity, humor, and unwavering love touched everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A family memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.