Judith M. Connors

Judith M. Connors, née Bjorklund, of Park Ridge, peacefully passed away surrounded by family October 16, 2025 at the age of 89. Beloved wife of the late James J. Connors. Loving mother of John (Gloria), Jeffrey, Joyce Connors, Jenell (James) Ranft, Jill (Jeff) Diez, and Julie (Ken Payne) Connors. Mother-in-law of Tamie Connors. Devoted grandmother of Treasure (Josh Wilson) Connors, Thomas (Brenda), Paige, Kevin (Jennifer), and Teagan Connors, Jody (Brian) Schmidt, Stephanie Dortch, Ryan and Benjamin Ranft, Eden, Emma, and Ava Diez. Great-grandmother of Tabatha Connors, Bennett and Liberty Schmidt, Atlas and Orion Wilson-Connors, Martín Connors-Jimenez, Wilfrédo Colón, and Zethiana Vargas. Loving daughter of the late Leonard and Lillian Bjorklund. Dear sister of Lynne (late James) Sullivan and Kathy (Ron) Dakter.
Judy was born and raised in Chicago. She attended Saint Pascal, Cardinal Stritch, and Mundelein College. Her childhood was spent at Portage Park running in the grass, swimming in the dirt bottom swimming pool, taking ballet, and corralling kids as a camp counselor.
Being a strong independent person she worked at Sears, Pabst, and as an elevator operator at Mundelein College. Judy met her loving husband roller skating at the Hub in 1956. They married in 1958 in a kwanza hut at St Eugene parish, and they celebrated 58 years of marriage together. While raising six children, she volunteered endlessly at St. Wenceslaus school and church. From lunch mom to social and fundraising events to writing/editing/layout of the parish newsletter. Girl Scouting was also an undeniable passion, serving for over 25 years.
Working at the family pet store also became one of her many jobs. After spending over 25 years at the home on Springfield where they raised their 6 children; they moved to Park Ridge and built a home that welcomed family and friends. Judy was an active advocate for many charities and joined many groups and ministries at her parish, Mary, Seat of Wisdom, and her community. She was a member of The Park Ridge Garden Club, 20th Century Club, PADS, Mary Magdelene Guild, and delivered Meals on Wheels for 20 years until the age of 79. Judy was a strong positive influence to her family, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and loyal to her friends and faith.
Visitation Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Ryan-Parke Funeral Home, 120 S Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068. Funeral Mass Monday, October 20, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at Mary, Seat of Wisdom Catholic Church 920 Granville Avenue, Park Ridge, IL 60068. Graveside service to follow at Maryhill Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleum, Niles, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations to Alzheimer's Association, would be appreciated.