Judith Lee Terpstra

Judith Lee Terpstra (née Hartman) passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, after a lengthy journey with cancer. She was born on September 16, 1942, and in 1964 became the beloved wife of Bill (William), sharing a marriage of 61 years.

Judy was a very special and dear lady who was a blessing to her family and friends. She is survived and will be deeply missed by her children, Michele (David) Slinkman and William (Beth) Terpstra; her grandchildren, Sara (Thomas) McKinney, Jack (Alison) Slinkman, Emma (Eric) Moran, Kyle (Tiffany) Slinkman, Nicole (Trent) Miller, William Terpstra, Elise (Zeke) Atha, and Zachary Terpstra; as well as five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, John Hartman. She was preceded in death by her parents, Larry and Charlene Hartman, and her brother, Thomas Hartman.

Her deep love for people was evident to all—family, friends, and the many others whose lives she touched. Decades of gatherings and special moments at the family lakehouse were just one reflection of her kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others. Whether spending time with loved ones, welcoming guests, or lending a helping hand in her community, Judy’s care and compassion left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her daily life reflected her core values: her steadfast faith, devotion to those around her, and a heart inclined to give rather than receive.

Judy’s life was also marked by faithful service to her church and Christian education. She served as the volunteer bookkeeper at Bethel Christian Reformed Church for about 30 years and spent many years as a mentor mom to younger mothers. She also dedicated roughly 30 years as a volunteer—and for many of those years as the leader—of the Careers Program at Illiana Christian High School, guiding students in selecting post–high school career paths. For her efforts, she was recognized as an Outstanding Volunteer by JCPenney.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 22, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. A funeral service celebrating Judy’s life will take place on Saturday, August 23 at 10:30 a.m. at Bethel Christian Reformed Church 3500 Glenwood-Lansing Rd. Lansing, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to Illiana Christian High School (www.illianachristian.org).

It is said that the test of a life well lived is whether the world is a better place because of it. Judy’s life and her love for others are a clear testimony that the world is better today because she was part of it. She will be greatly missed.