Judith Rebecca Durham

"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." Proverbs 31:28-31

Judith Rebecca Durham, 89, of Blacksburg, Virginia, went to be with her Lord on January 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 6, 1937, in Union, South Carolina, Judith-known to many as Judy-was a bright and curious soul whose love of learning shaped her entire life. She graduated from Columbia College in 1959 with a Bachelor of Arts in French and English, which served as a foundation for her lifelong passion for education.

Judy devoted her life to teaching and nurturing children and teenagers. She guided youths through public schools, preschools, and Bible studies, always encouraging them to grow, learn, and explore the world with curiosity and confidence. She also served as a beloved children's librarian at the Radford Public Library, where her warmth and dedication inspired a love of reading in countless young lives.

A devout Methodist, Judy lived her life in the image of her Lord, showing compassion, humility, and grace in everything she did. She gave generously of her time through volunteer work with numerous organizations, including the library, Meals on Wheels, the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, the Wesley Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, and many others. She also participated in numerous mission trips, both domestic and abroad, reflecting her deep commitment to faith, service, and making the world a better place.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Lee Jenkins and Nellie Mae Fowler Jenkins; beloved family member Etta Mae Jones; and her brothers, William, Harry, Robert, Donald, Tommy, and Richard.

Judith is survived by her devoted husband of 65 years, James Wyatt Durham; her faithful son, David Durham (Melissa); her daughter, Mary Kathryn Durham; her grandchildren, Jessica Durham and Ryan Durham (Rachael); her brother, Michael (Trish); her beloved sister-in-law, Becky Jenkins; and many other family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Judy and her husband Jim journeyed through life together, sharing a deep and enduring love. They enjoyed traveling, camping, and biking together, spending their lives side by side and treasuring every moment as partners, best friends, and companions in all of life's adventures.

Judy will be remembered for her boundless love-a love she shared not only with her family and friends but with everyone she met. Her gentle spirit, her joy in life, and her commitment to serving others leave a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the LewisGale Montgomery Hospital CMU staff and Good Samaritan Hospice for their love, care, and support during her final days.

A service to celebrate Judith's life will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Blacksburg United Methodist Church. Fellowship to follow. Service officiated by Rev. Brad Dulaney and Joe Durham.

The Durham family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford, VA www.mullinsfuneralhome.com.