Judith Kaye Vander Ark

Judith Kaye (Bennett) Vander Ark, age 81 of Jenison, went home to Jesus Wednesday, July 24, 2024. The happiest, most loving woman we have ever known is in the happiest, most loving place she has ever been. While she will be deeply missed by her family and friends, her legacy of faith, a life lived loving Jesus, will live on in our hearts until we see her again.

Judy was an avid cross stitcher. The walls of her family's homes are full of her favorite scriptures lovingly created stitch by stitch. She loved music, especially southern gospel, and would never turn down an opportunity to sit outside in the front yard and visit with family and neighbors. Judy had the gifts of hospitality and helps. She enjoyed cooking for her family and others and was always seeking ways to meet needs and encourage others. She loved to travel, watch the birds in her yard, and sit by the water. Nobody could get within arms length without feeling her gentle touch.

Cherishing her memory is her beloved husband of 59 years, Richard; children Tonya (Bruce) Crouterfield, Rene (Curt) Hammit, Rhinda (Rob) Hayden, Marc (Marcy) Vander Ark; 21 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 9:30-10:45 a.m. Saturday, August 10, 2024, followed by the funeral service 11 a.m. at Byron Center Bible Church, 8855 Byron Center Ave. SW, Byron Center, MI. We invite extended family and friends to join us for a luncheon after the service. Interment will be 2 p.m. at Georgetown Cemetery, Hudsonville, MI. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Judy's honor to Horizon Education Network, Byron Center Bible Church, or Mel Trotter Ministries. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.