Coleman Preston Judy Jr.

Pres Judy (7/14/1944 - 9/01/2024)

Coleman Preston Judy Jr., affectionately known as "Pres," passed away unexpectedly on September 1, 2024, while at his cherished retreat on Hilton Head Island. Born on July 14, 1944, in Lexington, KY, Pres was a beloved son, devoted husband, esteemed coach, and adoring father and grandfather.

From an early age, Pres demonstrated a remarkable passion for sports. As a standout athlete at Henry Clay High School, he excelled in basketball, football, and baseball. Despite football recruitment offers, Pres, following his father's advice, chose a basketball scholarship to play under the renowned Whack Hyder at Georgia Tech from 1964 to 1967. His exceptional career at Georgia Tech, highlighted by his sharpshooting and record-setting performances in scoring and field goals, earned him a place in the Hall of Fame. Pres often humorously noted how much more he could have scored if the three-point line had been in place during his time.

Pres's dedication to sports continued beyond his playing career as he transitioned into coaching, with notable stints at St. Pius X, Georgia Tech, and the Hawks when they relocated to Atlanta. During this period, he met and married Alice Fletcher of Beaufort, SC. Their 50-year marriage was a profound testament to their love and commitment to family. Pres was a devoted husband until Alice's passing in April 2023.

Following his coaching career, Pres devoted over 40 years to Olympus of America, where he became the longest-serving employee before his retirement. However, it was his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather that he treasured most. Pres took immense pride in his children, Liz Judy Pearce and Matt Judy, who lived nearby in Roswell, GA. He was a dedicated coach and mentor to many young athletes through the Roswell Recreation Department, faithfully attending his children's games and special events.

Pres found joy and fulfillment in his grandchildren-Coleman Preston Judy III, Preston Pearce, and Ryan Pearce-whom he adored and supported with unwavering dedication. After Alice's passing, and following many years with beloved Irish Setters, Pres found solace in a large white dog named Gracie, named after Alice's favorite song, "Miss Grace." Together, they could often be seen out and about in Roswell.

Pres is survived by his sister, Susan May of Lexington, KY; his son, Matt Judy, and daughter-in-law, Allison Stepp Judy; his daughter, Liz Judy Pearce, and son-in-law, Neal Pearce; and his treasured grandchildren, Coleman, Preston, and Ryan Pearce. He is also survived by his nieces, Betsy Preston May and Lucy May Nall of Lexington, KY; his brother-in-law, LD Fletcher; and his nephew, Greg Fletcher of Beaufort, SC. Additionally, he leaves behind his beloved dog, Gracie, along with his granddogs, Barrington, Charlie, Rosie, and his grandcat, Porter.

A man of steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, loyalty, and humanity, Pres leaves behind a lasting legacy through the lives he touched and the family he loved. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his impact will resonate for generations.

The family is hosting a celebration of life on Saturday, September 14, at 2:00 PM at Roswell First Baptist Church in Roswell, GA, followed by a reception nearby. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Pres's name to the Star House Foundation, which supports at-risk children in Roswell (https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/shback2school24), and to the Georgia Tech Athletics Alexander Tharpe Fund in his honor (https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1481/athletics-4/atfund/17/interior.aspx?sid=1481&gid=4&pgid=446&cid=1143&appealcode=AT23W).