Judy Ann Cimaglia

She was a New Year’s baby, born January 1, 1947, in Coffee County, Georgia. Judy Ann Overstreet was born with cerebral palsy at a time when even doctors did not believe she would live a full life—let alone reach the age of seventy-nine.

Judy wanted her independence and would not sit back and allow others to determine how she would live her life. At seventeen, she set out on her own, working as an au pair so she would have a place to live. She had met her husband, Alfred, a few years earlier while briefly living in New York—she just didn’t know it yet. Alfred pursued her relentlessly, writing letter after letter and making long-distance phone calls whenever possible. Eventually, Judy acquiesced, returning to New York to begin the rest of her life with her love.

Despite opposition from many, and after having to convince the Catholic Church to bless their marriage, Judy and Alfred were married on August 12, 1967. A little over a year later, Judy went to the doctor, where a group of physicians solemnly told her, “We are very sorry—you are pregnant.” Judy, however, was elated. All she had ever wanted was to be a mother and have a family, and she was going to have it.

Against the odds, Judy and Alfred were married for fifty-three years before his passing. Together they raised three children: Theresa, Eugene, and Dionne. She was blessed with loving grandchildren and, recently the birth of a great-granddaughter.

Life was not easy, as accessibility was often a challenge. Upon her marriage, Judy lost the disability benefits she had received through her father; however, in a historic case, she fought for thirteen years to have those benefits reinstated—and she prevailed. Despite the many challenges she faced, Judy never complained, remaining grateful and deeply blessed for the life God had given her.

She built lifelong friendships that stood the test of time, and she was a constant source of support and kindness to all who knew her, as well as to anyone in need.

Judy had an adventurous spirit. Whether it was ocean swims, roller coasters, casino trips, Broadway shows, concerts, or Disney adventures, she never allowed herself to be limited. People were often amazed to see her out in her power wheelchair on the roadways, fully engaged in life and always on the move.

Judy lived her life going wherever each day led her, and she did so always with a smile that will live on in all who knew her.