Judy Lou Williams, born February 16, 1956, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at the age of 70. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories among her family and friends. She is survived by her significant other, Gary Athey, who stood by her side through life’s many adventures. Judy’s fierce love and guidance will forever be missed by her two sons, Ben (Cassandra) and Jed (Jolene) Williams. Along with Courtney (Jesse) and Mitchell (Lauren). She has 11 grandchildren. Elijah, Tyler (Skylar and her sister Gracie), Heaven Leigh, Megan, Hailey, Emma, Elsie, Calvin, Sam. Great granddaughter, Delyla Ivy. She has two brothers, Gus (late Ann, current Rhonda), Joel (Janice) Maxfield, sister Ann (Tony) Schmid, and their beloved families. She was preceded in death by her parents, Duane “Dutch” and Mary Lou Maxfield, spouse Dan Williams, daughter Emily Williams, sister n law Ann Maxfield. Judy grew up in Austin, MN with her family, where she learned the love of the great outdoors: she hunted, fished, canoed. She moved to Rochester, where she raised her family with the same zest for life and love for the outdoors. She spent the remainder of her life in Elysian, MN where she cherished every sunset, pontoon ride, kayak paddle around the lake, and ice melt.
For anyone who has a pet, he or she would understand the companionship of a furry four-legged friend. Louie was this for Judy. He would make her laugh with his silly antics. He was not shy about letting her know there was a squirrel he needed to chase. He stayed by her side to the very end.
Though there are are no words that could truly describe the amazing person she was, or catalog a well spent life or strength that Judy’s legacy will forever endure in the hearts of her family and friends. We know she will be missed but will live on in the many lives she touched.
Memorial Service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Elysian Archery, 109 East Main Street, Elysian, Minnesota. A Celebration of Life will follow the service.
Service will be held at Elysian Archery in Elysian, MN at 11:00 AM with a Celebration of Life to follow. Address is 109 East Main St. Elysian, Minnesota.
We are so sorry for your loss. She was a special lady.
She was a wonderful person and will be missed so much. I was lucky to know her. Sending prayers
I spent some time painting at Gary and Judy’s home and got to know Judy while I was there. The short time I spent, I learned what an amazing person/ woman she was. Thinking of her whole family as I’m sure this loss is not an easy one! Rest in peace Judy❤️
Back in 1986 or so, when Emily was in Girl Scouts I had the pleasure of getting to know Judy and her family as my daughter was in the Girl Scout Troop. We spent several years together in Scouts. Judy encouraged me to assist with the Troop and she was a wonderful mentor as well as a good friend. Judy, you will be missed. Enjoy your great next adventure.
Judy- you have brought so much life to others. We will miss your wonderful stories and guidance. I know you will be celebrating with Em up in heaven. God bless!