Judith A. Brice

Judy Brice passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, in her home, surrounded by those she loved. She was born on November 25, 1931, in Lakeland, Florida, to Robert Ziba Gibson and Julia Bush Gibson. Judy was a proud graduate of Lakeland Senior High School, class of 1950.

Judy and her beloved husband, E. Alex Brice, were the second couple married at the former Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church (now Parker Street Ministries) and the first couple married there after the church was consecrated. Together, they shared a beautiful life—80 years of love and 75 years of marriage.

Judy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She touched the lives of everyone she met with her kindness, warmth, laughter, and gentle spirit. Those who knew her felt her generosity and love deeply, and she will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Throughout her life, Judy was known for her unwavering devotion to family and friends. She found great joy in spending time with her loved ones and caring for others. When not tending to those she loved, she enjoyed gardening—especially flowers—interior design, fashion and accessorizing, and spending time with birds and nature. She was a devoted member of the United Methodist Women and sang joyfully in the church choir. Judy also cherished time spent at her special place along the Chassahowitzka River. Judy was a true giver. Whether sharing food from her kitchen or flower cuttings from her garden, you always knew you were loved because she wanted you to have something from her.

Judy is survived by her loving husband, E. Alex Brice; her children Julie Morton (Jerry) and Lex Brice (Ann); her cherished grandchildren, Mandy Morton Middleton (Keith), Megan Brice Bregler (Adam), and Cody Brice (Login); and her dear great-grandchildren J.B. Middleton, Brandon Bregler, and Dalton and Angler Brice. She is also survived by her brother, James Robert “Bobby” Gibson, and his children Jim, Sharon, Karen, and Sandy, as well as the children of her late brother, Samuel Clark “Hoot” Gibson: Drew, Jenny, and Molly. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Samuel Clark Gibson.

To celebrate Judy’s life, a viewing will be held at Heath Funeral Chapel in Lakeland on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Good Shepherd Hospice and to all who offered warm visits, cards of encouragement, and gifts of love during the past year of Judy’s hospice care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to causes dear to Judy’s heart: Residing Hope (formerly the United Methodist Children’s Home), 51 Children’s Way, Enterprise, FL 33275; or Good Hospice/ Chapters Health System, 3450 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33805.

“Mothers know the strength of gentleness, give the gift of thoughtfulness, live a life of love.” Judy will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her radiant smile that could brighten any room, and the legacy of love she leaves behind in the hearts of all who knew her.