Judith Miner

JUDITH MINER passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at the age of 83.

She was born in Pittsfield, MA, but moved to Louisville at an early age where she lived for the remainder of her life. She was the only child of Henry Richard Miner of Nebraska and Marion Madsen of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Judy graduated from Wagoner High School and attended the University of Kentucky. She received her BA and Masters of Arts in Ceramics from the University of Louisville, followed by a career in pottery and one-of-a-kind ceramic designs. Judy had a discriminating eye for beauty that was shown in her home and the pottery she created. She was an avid gardener and interested in native Kentucky plants that surrounded her home which she shared with her life partner and wife, Laura Ross. Judy always loved hosting dinners and setting a beautiful table when they had family and friends over. But her most notable accomplishment was being a dedicated mom to her two sons. They were her pride and joy. She approached life with independence, curiosity, compassion and generosity for others, always giving more than she received. A seeker, Judy was constantly engaged in making things better for others in any way she could.

Since 1996, Judy and Laura have lived on the Ohio River, having built a home and working art studio inspired by the ever-changing daily rhythms of the river. They have enjoyed traveling the world together, visiting many countries of interest. Judy always enjoyed planning the next trip for themselves or family. When she turned 80, she even decided to take a trip all on her own to the Polynesian Islands and Tahiti. She was also an avid reader and was always looking to learn and expand her knowledge.

Judy is survived by her wife, Laura Ross and her son, Richard Miner Ray and wife Tina of Louisville, who will keep her spirit alive with great stories and memories. She is also survived by many friends over the years. She was preceded in death by her oldest son, Charles Peyton Ray.

Her family wishes to thank the Neuro team at Norton Hospital Brownsboro in the East ICU wing for their compassionate caregiving and dedicated teamwork. A celebration of Judy's life will be in late spring, her favorite time to begin thinking about her garden.