Judith A. Beato

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Judith "Judy" Beato, a loving wife, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, who passed away at home on January 16, 2025. Judy, born on March 9, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, was the beloved wife of Joseph Beato, mother to Robert and Kelli, and a treasured grandmother to Gabriella, Samantha, and Gianna.
Judy graduated from Denby High School in 1964, and went on to earn her nursing degree, a profession in which she dedicated much of her life. Her compassionate spirit and nurturing nature made her an outstanding nurse who spent her career caring for the sick and elderly. She loved helping others and was known for her gentle touch and warm smile, always going above and beyond to ensure the comfort of those in her care. But Judy's greatest role in life was not just as a nurse-it was as a mother and grandmother, roles she held with a depth of love and devotion that knew no bounds.
Judy made the decision to put her career on hold to stay at home and raise her children, Robert and Kelli. It was a decision she never regretted, as she poured her heart into creating a loving and stable home for her family. Her children fondly remember the warmth and love she gave them every day, and as a mother, she always ensured their needs were met, providing them with the guidance and care they needed to grow into the people they are today.
Judy's love extended far beyond her children. As a grandmother, there was literally nothing she would not do for Gabriella, Samantha, and Gianna. She reveled in spoiling her grandkids, always making sure they had everything a grandchild could want and more. Judy enjoyed showering them with love on every occasion, whether it was with thoughtful gifts or with her time, and attention. Her grandchildren brought her immeasurable joy, and she always made sure to let them know how special they were to her.
Beyond her family, Judy was passionate about many things. She had a great love for Detroit's professional sports teams and would cheer them on with the same enthusiasm and devotion that she gave to her family. She found peace and solace in her garden, tending to the flowers and plants she nurtured with care. Judy had a special fondness for birds and dolphins, often finding tranquility in watching them in nature. She was also an avid fan of musicals, Elvis Presley, QVC, Jeopardy, and Wheel of Fortune-her evenings were often filled with these simple pleasures that made her smile.
For many years, Judy and her husband Joe spent their winters as "snowbirds," living in Cape Coral, Florida, from January through May. They cherished these months in the sunshine, enjoying the slower pace and the warmth of the Florida lifestyle. Afterward, they would return to Michigan and spend cherished time in their cabin in Northern Michigan, where they would reconnect with nature and create lasting memories together.
Judy's love for her family and her community was unwavering. She will be remembered for her kind heart, her generous spirit, and her unyielding devotion to those she loved. She gave everything she had to her family, always putting others before herself, and was a constant source of strength and love.
Judy is survived by her loving husband, Joseph; children, Robert (Erin) Beato, Kelli (Michael) White; grandchildren, Gabriella White, Samantha White, Gianna Beato, and beloved best friend Renee Gurlides. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Dorothy Eckford, and sister Gloria Belanger.
We will all gather from 1:00-4:00 p.m. with a 3:00 p.m. funeral service held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Wasik Funeral Home – Gendernalik Chapel located at 35259 23 Mile Road in New Baltimore.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Judy's memory to Make-A-Wish.
Judy will be deeply missed, but forever remembered by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.