Judith Lea Smith

Judith Lea Smith, "Judy", 83, of Wilkes-Barre, unexpectedly passed away at home on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

Born October 21, 1942 in Wilkes-Barre she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Ann Jackson.

Judy was a graduate of E.L. Meyers High School, Class of 1960.

Judy worked for Bell Telephone, Telephone Answering Service, and Mercy Hospital. She was a 'lunch lady' at Kistler Elementary School before retiring to spend time with family and friends.

Judy loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and loved attending their events. She looked forward to her dinners, movies, and shopping with her sisters, and playing cards with her card club friends. She enjoyed trips to Florida, Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Jamaica, The Poconos, Outer Banks, and Long Beach Island with her family and friends. Most of all, she loved celebrating our annual Smithmas.

Judy had a strong Christian faith and was a devoted member of the First Church of Christ, now Living Hope Bible Church. She was an active member of the choir and the women's ministry. Judy enjoyed spending time with her church family.

In her free time, she enjoyed going to breakfast with anyone who would take her, making TikToks with Gabby, going to Curry every Sunday after Church, rooting for the 'Iggles' and Patrick Mahomes, and an occasional stop at the casino.

Her loving husband, William E. Smith, preceded her in death, as did her sister and best friend, Connie J. Guesto. 

Judy leaves behind to cherish her memory, William 'Chuck' Smith and his wife Annie of Plains, Sharyl and her husband Scott Graham of Wilkes-Barre, and Jeff Smith and his wife Karen of Plains; grandchildren, Lindsay and her husband John, Michael and his wife Kristie, Megan and Gabby, Jeffrey and his wife Carly, Shane and his wife Kaity, and Tanner; great-grandchildren Mia, Hunter, Harper, Emmy, Jayce, and Bennett; sisters Beverly Benis and Cathy Jackson; nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Celebration of Judy's Life begins Sunday, January 4, 2026, with visitation from 5 to 7 PM at McLaughlin's, 142 South Washington Street in Wilkes-Barre. It continues on Monday, January 5, 2026, with gathering at 9:30 AM followed by a service at 10 AM at Living Hope Bible Church, Carey Avenue at Horton Street in Wilkes-Barre.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Living Hope Bible Church, lhbcpa.org/give , in honor of Judy's memory.

Share memories and condolences with Judy's family at mjmclaughlin.com