Judy Ann Coryell

Judy is survived by her sister, Dona Welch of Honolulu, Hawaii; and generations of nieces and nephews, who knew Judy as a caring and generous matriarch. She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Ellen Coryell of Ventura, California and her sister, Joan Chant (née Coryell) of Oxnard, California.

Judy Coryell was born on July 26, 1946 in Los Angeles to Frank and Ellen Coryell. After graduating from St. Genevieve High School in 1964, she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Geography from California State University, Northridge and went on to earn her Master’s in Special Education. Her celebrated career was devoted to teaching children with special needs. After stints at schools around Southern California, Judy’s longest tenure was at Penfield Elementary School in Ventura, where her inspiring commitment earned her Special Education Teacher of the Year recognition from Ventura County Superintendent of Schools Office in 2002. She was also recognized by Exceptional Parent magazine the same year.

Though Judy never chose to marry or have children, she was deeply devoted to her family and a loving caregiver. Her parents lived with her in their later years and she always sought out ways to support her large extended family. Her many nieces and nephews can all tell stories of the times Aunt Judy stepped in to fill a need selflessly—new clothes for school or the chance to participate in youth sports—never seeking praise or gratitude.

A talented singer, many of Judy’s most enduring friendships were formed in her years in the ChannelAire Chorus chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Whether talking about performing on stages nationwide or the many inspiring women she met there, Judy always spoke of her time in the chorus fondly.

A memorial is scheduled for Saturday, January 6, 2018, 2:00 PM, at Ted Mayr Funeral Home, with a reception to follow. The Reverend Dan Hull will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Judy’s life. The family would like to thank Amity & Joy Home Care for their compassionate care.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, CA 93003. Condolences may be sent to TedMayrFuneralHome.com.