Judith Ann Johnson

January 23, 1948 – October 31, 2025

Judith “Judy” Johnson, 77, of Peoria, Arizona passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska on January 23, 1948, Judy carried her Midwestern warmth and lively spirit wherever life took her. She attended Westside High School in Omaha, graduating in 1966, and later earned a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. While at the university, she was a proud member of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority and met the love of her life, Arthur “A. Jay” Johnson. The anniversary of their first date was October 31, 1969, a day they cherished for 56 wonderful years together.

After marrying A. Jay on August 15, 1970, Judy and her husband began their family in Omaha, Nebraska. Over the years, they moved several times, creating memories in Douglassville, PA; Norfolk, NE; Fort Smith, AR; Bloomington, IL; and finally settling in Peoria, AZ in 2003. During their time in Pennsylvania, Judy was active in the Amity Athletic Club and the Douglassville Women’s Club. Wherever they lived, she built lasting friendships and community ties.

Judy enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a kitchen and bathroom designer, a passion that grew from her love of decorating and helping others. She would wallpaper and decorate for anyone who asked, eventually expanding into real estate, mortgage lending, and design work. Her creativity and eye for detail touched many homes.

She and A. Jay raised four children: Todd (Tiffany) of Lincoln, NE; Becky of Phoenix, AZ; Matt (Jennifer) of Castle Pines, CO and Mark of Litchfield Park, AZ. Judy was a proud grandmother to Eddie, Charlie, Sophie, Remington, and Kimber. She is survived by her siblings: Dr. Larry Abbott, Katherine Smith, Betsy Rose, Tom Abbott, and Bill Abbott.

Judy had a lifelong passion for swimming and diving, even reaching the incredible milestone of competing in the Olympic Trials for diving. She also loved playing bridge, painting, and cheering on her favorite teams – the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and team USA in the Olympics. She loved family dinners, any sporting event, and connecting with others - especially fellow Cornhuskers. Known for her strong will, vibrant personality, and big heart, Judy never met a stranger and left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

In lieu of a traditional funeral, the family will host a celebration of life at a later date – an opportunity for family and friends to share memories, laughter and love in her honor. She will be laid to rest in Omaha, Nebraska.

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved, we can never lose, for all that we love deeply become a part of us.”

- Helen Keller