William Jack Judd

Born in Live Oak, Florida, Will spent most of his life in Tampa, where he built a community of friends who quickly became a lifelong part of his family.

Will was known for many things, but above all, he was loyal. The sort of loyal that shows up before you ask, fixes what’s broken without being told, and makes you laugh even on your hardest days. He had a generous heart and a mind that never stopped learning, tinkering, or coming up with some wonderfully creative idea.

A gifted cook, Will loved spending time in the kitchen cooking for those closest to him. Most of the time there was no recipe required, just instinct, humor, and maybe one or two 90s sitcom reruns playing in the background. And always beside him was the love of his life—his dog Kiara.

He also loved working on cars, talking sports, and above all, cheering on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. His loyalty to Notre Dame ran deep, as he started wearing Notre Dame clothes as a kid and never stopped, no matter how the season was going. (And let’s be honest, he endured some character-building seasons.)

Will filled his world, and the worlds of others, with joy. He shared the best parts of his life freely…the food, the jokes, the big wins, the small wins, and everything in between. He made ordinary days feel lighter and good days feel great.

He is survived by his mother, Janet; his brother, Allan; and an extended family of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and countless devoted friends who loved him like their own. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, who played a profound role in shaping the man he became, and his dog Kiara.

Those who knew him will remember his kindness, his laughter, his curiosity, and his unwavering loyalty. The world is dimmer and not quite as humorous without him, but the stories he leaves behind and the people he loved so fiercely will carry his spirit forward.