Judith C Deegan

Judith Marie Cook Deegan, 87, passed away peacefully in Alexander City, Alabama on February 12, 2026. Judy was born on March 18, 1938, in Pratt City, Alabama, to Elbert G. Cook and Doris Merkl Cook. She graduated from Birmingham Southern College and received her Master's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph F. Deegan; her parents; her sisters, twin, Janice Cook Wright, Jimmie McInerney and Jane Curtis. She is survived by her brother, Gary Cook, and numerous nieces and nephews.

As a young woman, Judy traveled extensively, even living and teaching in West Germany and Bermuda, before returning to the USA to teach 3rd grade for 36 years at Brookwood Forest Elementary, Mountain Brook, Alabama. A compassionate and kind woman, Judy lived her life based on service to others, generosity and genuine care for others. She enjoyed gardening and was a gifted floral arranger. Judy was a member of the dance troupe, The Birmingham Showstoppers, for over 20 years and was an accomplished ballroom dancer. She enjoyed memberships in women's professional organizations, including AAUW, and her sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi, as well as volunteering for numerous charities and church organizations.

A memorial service will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10 am at Ridout's Valley Chapel, Homewood, Alabama, with interment immediately following at Elmwood Cemetary. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, alz.org.