Judith Wells Porter

The first thing you noticed about Judy Porter was her beautiful silver hair. The second thing was her infectious laugh—warm, engaging, and impossible to forget. Judy’s laugh was a source of joy for all who knew and loved her. And to know her was to love her.

Judy grew up in Banning, Georgia, the daughter of Don and Jewell Wells. She was one of four children and remained close to her two brothers and her sister throughout her life. She graduated in 1984 from the Richards College of Business at the University of West Georgia. Bill and Judy were married in December 1991 and became loving parents to four children: Sidney, Christopher, Andrew, and Sarah. Her children—and her extended family—remained the center of Judy’s universe.

Though Judy had many talents and interests, her four children were her greatest joy. For her athletic, talented brood, Judy joyfully drove carpool, traveled far and wide to attend games, matches, and practices, made snacks, threw birthday parties, undertook leadership roles in their schools and activities, and offered wise counsel. Through good times and bad, Judy remained a steady, loving, and joyful presence to her family. Though her children grew up and launched into their own lives, Judy delighted in the simple ritual of their weekly Sunday dinners—cooking together and savoring time as a family.

Judy’s friends were also her joy. She had many close friends and friend groups whom she loved unabashedly. She acted as chauffeur, cook, confidante, and storyteller extraordinaire for all who entered her orbit. Her intelligence and joyful approach to life elevated any conversation. Judy’s wise and loving advice was sought by all, for it came naturally to her.

Whether dressing as Elvis and singing for a friend’s birthday or throwing a COVID-safe outdoor party during the pandemic, Judy loved to entertain her friends. Her kitchen was the scene of countless hours of laughter and camaraderie.

Judy was an extraordinary gardener with unrivaled knowledge of plants, happiest when she was outside among them. She also valued fitness and movement, embracing an active lifestyle throughout her life. Judy was a talented seamstress and shared her love of quilt-making with her mother, her daughter Sarah, and her friends.

Judy died suddenly on November 17, 2025, just two days before her 65th birthday, from complications of the flu. In addition to her husband, Bill, and their children, she is survived by her father, Don Wells; brothers Don Jr. and Steve Wells; sister Ellie Turner; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at H.M. Patterson & Son – Oglethorpe Hill Chapel, Atlanta, Georgia, on December 1, 2025, at 2:30 PM, followed by a reception from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Central Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, Georgia.

Judy will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.