Judith Kay Firehammer

Judith Kay Meissler Firehammer was born on Jan. 4, 1940, to Ella Schmueser and Edward Meissler.

Throughout her life, Judith touched the hearts of everyone she met – family, friends, and even new acquaintances – always offering a patient ear and unwavering support.

Her gift for compassion extended into her professional life. Judith began her career as a professor of physical education at Concordia River College and continued teaching and coaching at the high school level in St. Joseph. Later, she earned a master's degree in counseling psychology from Western Michigan University and dedicated herself to counseling youth and women, empowering them to overcome life's challenges with strength and resilience.

Judith was reflective and introspective, yet strong, intelligent, and deeply caring. In her later years, nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her three beloved grandchildren.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Judith loved playing basketball, tennis, bocce and golf – instilling this passion in, and often sharing this pastime with her sons. She was a true pioneer in women's collegiate athletics. Alongside friends, she helped establish a women's collegiate full-court basketball league, challenging the state athletic board and paving the way for the game as we know it today. In recognition of her groundbreaking contributions, Judith was inducted into Concordia University's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002 as part of the first group of women to play and coach at the state level.

Judith is preceded in death by her son, Joel.

She is survived by her devoted husband, James; her three sons: Jon (Susan), Jeremy and James (Tasha), and her daughter-in-law, Elisabeth Preis and grandchildren: Jackson, Scarlett and Delilah. Her loving family, along with her cat, Tali, were by her side when she passed peacefully at home on Nov. 8, 2025.

A memorial service will be held at Community of Grace Church in Peoria, Ariz., where Judith cherished time with friends. Details will be shared with family and loved ones. You may share a memory of Judith on the Regency Mortuary, Sun City, Ariz., website.