Judith A. Farris

Preceded in death by her late husband Joe D. Farris, her parents Reeva and Ralph Yonke and her brother James. Judy is survived by her sister Joyce; her daughters Vicki Sturtevant, Christi Franklin, Juli Kowalski (Ken) and Lori Farris, nine grandchildren Amanda, Bryce (Sara), Anthony (Erin), Abby, Allison (Amos), Kathryn, Christopher, Melissa (Ron) and Mat (Jessica) and many great grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Judy was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois in a loving family that valued faith, education and community service. As a child, Judy studied music and dance, making appearances as a member of “The Kelly Adorables” along with her sister Joyce. The Kelly Adorables appeared at charity events and on local television back in the 50’s when TV was still a novelty.

Judy learned a strong work ethic from a young age. Both of her parents worked, and the entire family contributed to running a local hamburger restaurant in Lockport, IL called “The Brite Spot”. She graduated from St. Frances High School in Joliet, and went on to achieve a masters degree in special education. Judy dedicated an accomplished 35+ years to educating young people. She inspired her special needs students, served as union representative, and was a school principal. Judy retired from Waukegan Public Schools in 2004.

During mid-life, Judy was introduced to Joe while bowling on a league together. They hit it off, and were happily married for 38 years. Judy and Joe were both very social and well liked, enjoying bowling together, as well as camping, going out to dinner and shows with friends. They hosted many backyard barbecues, and family holiday events at their home in Beach Park. She maintained a beautiful garden.

Judy was dedicated to her family, and was a central cohesive figure in all of our lives. A testament to that being that she kept in regular contact with Joe’s first wife Carol Townsley, and Carol’s late parents Anthony and Helen Lutter.

Throughout her life Judy remained strong in her Catholic faith. She served as a Eucharistic minister, and played piano and organ during Sunday mass at her local parish Our Lady of Humility.

She was well loved and will be greatly missed

A visitation for Judy will be held Saturday, July 29th, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM with a funeral service at 11:30 AM, at Marsh Funeral Home, 305 North Cemetery Road, Gurnee, Illinois 60031. Burial at Ascension Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleum, 1920 West Buckley Road, Libertyville, Illinois 60048.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MarshFuneralHome.com for the Farris family.