Judy L. Williams

Judy L. Williams, 40, of Billings, formerly of Thompson Falls, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2002, at her home.

Judy was born on June 8, 1962, in Rochester, N.Y., the daughter of Chuck and Lola Bollinger. As an infant, she moved to Tennessee and then to Piqua, Ohio, where she graduated from Piqua High School. Judy then attended the local community college for a time before her adventurous free spirit brought her to Montana at the age of 21.

She found her home first in Missoula, surrounded by the mountains she loved. In Missoula, she met her future husband, Bob Williams. They were married on Nov. 1, 1985. In 1987, Judy gave birth to their jewel, Sarah, the daughter that would be the focus of her life. In the late 1980s the family moved to Thompson Falls, where they lived for 10 years. During that time, Judy was a manager at the Elks Lodge and also worked various other jobs. Judy enjoyed life in Thompson Falls, of which her family has many fond memories. In 1996, the family moved to Portland, Ore., where her husband attended college.

In Portland, Judy drove school bus, a job she thoroughly loved. She was also famous for her great nachos and chicken potpie she made for her many friends. Judy always looked forward to getting back to Montana, and was happy when the family moved to Havre after Bob's graduation. She felt at home in Havre and made many friends there. While living up on the Hi-Line, Judy became a floral designer and also was a member of the Havre Eagles Lodge. She truly loved life in Havre and missed so many of her friends when the family moved to Billings in January of 2000.

Throughout all of her family's moves, Judy was a devoted mother and wife. She tried to make the best of her situation, always making new friends along the way. Recently, in Billings, Judy was excited about driving a school bus again. She loved to be around students.

Judy was delighted in entertaining friends and having company over. She was at her finest as the hostess. Judy will be remembered for her vibrant personality, her award winning smile and her special laughter. She loved to play card games, especially hand & foot. Her dog, Brandy, was a special comfort to her when times were tough. In addition to her beloved husband Bob, her daughter Sarah was the center and the love of her life.

Survivors include her husband, Bob; daughter Sarah; her parents, Chuck and Lola Bollinger of Penn Run, Pa.; two sisters, Jan (Doyle) Richardson of Stuart, Fla., and Jackie (Tom) Norman of Tullahoma, Tenn.; one brother, Jim (Yolanda) Bollinger of Evans, Ga.; her husband's parents, Ralph and Jean Williams of Missoula; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

A vigil service will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, at St. Bernard's Parish. Funeral mass will be offered at 11 a.m. Monday, at St. Bernard's Parish. Cremation to follow services.

Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.