Judith Kay Nabors, who nearly always did what Jesus would do, has checked out of this earthly life and punched her ticket to paradise. For those of us who were fortunate enough to bask in her evergreen sunshine, we knew that she never knew a stranger and brought joy to countless other humans with nothing more than her smile.

Born the eldest child to Jim and Pauline Emery on 14 November, 1938, she always assumed the role of protector for her four younger siblings. As many did during that period in our history, she grew up financially poor in Danville, Illinois, but relationally wealthy…and always grateful for the life with which she was blessed.

Throughout her childhood and extending into her adult life, she was a voracious reader. Do you remember the Reader's Digest Condensed books? And her absolute fave book, rather a collection of books, the Bible, was never far from her side. All of this reading meant she had a unique and extraordinary grasp of the English vocabulary…which translated into her love of the game of scrabble where she was a grand master. Whenever she defeated us, which was most of the time, we knew she must have cheated because we never heard of such words. But we dare not challenge her because with that challenge would come another defeat (who knew em was a word!)

Sometime during 1955 she met a handsome charmer with alluring blue eyes, a keen sense of humor, and an admirable work ethic whom she decided to wed in 1956. With a deep, indescribable love for her husband of 65 years, she made a life worth living. Not without their trials and tribulations, the steel they forged throughout those periods was awe inspiring. Her rock, Bob Nabors, preceded her into his Heavenly home what seems like just yesterday.

Among her countless contributions to others throughout her life, she contributed mostly to her three children and her immediate and extended family. Her level of commitment to her entire family tree knew no bounds. We three children owe who we are to her investment during our formative years. She taught us to do the right thing, treat others as you would like to be treated, and above all, always choose love. And perhaps her greatest lesson, that was gleaned through observation rather than verbal teaching, was to forgive others, for that is what we, as Christians, are called most to do.

We would be remiss if we didn't mention her life-long love for her siblings…a love that was unconditional…the only type of love she knew.

Never again will we witness her striking up a conversation with an elevator mate or someone in line at the grocery, enjoy some toast with her butter or coffee with her cream, bring peace and comfort to someone in need whether she knew them or not, envelop us with her warming smile, suffer a devastating Scrabble defeat, or melt into one of her infamous hugs…even though small in stature, she was the very best hugger. We can, however, rest with the knowledge that she is now at peace, meeting new friends, re-establishing some old relationships, and drowning in the love and compassion of her Lord who she has served throughout her awesome life…and that we will see her again.

A funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM Monday, June 12th at St. Bernard's Catholic Church, led by Father Michael Bower.  Visitation will begin at 10 AM.  After the service, she will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Judy Nabors can be made to Durham Home, 215 West Main Street, Crawfordsville, IN 47933.  Online condolences may be made at www.BurkhartFH.com.