Judy Durnell Obituary
Publish in a newspaper
Family was the heart of Judy's life. She rarely missed a sporting event for her children or grandchildren and cherished every chance to cheer them on. She took pride in her beautiful yard and flower gardens, loved preparing holiday meals, and filled her home with warmth, laughter, and love. Judy also enjoyed country music, NASCAR, bowling, and evenings spent watching the Game Show Network. Whether playing bingo or trying her luck at the casino, she embraced life's simple joys. Known for her caring and generous spirit, she gave selflessly to others until her health no longer allowed.
She is survived by her children, Harold (Lisa Jordan) Durnell, Scott (Dawn) Durnell, and Greg (Donna) Durnell; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her siblings, Robert (Becky) Rife, Stephen (Deb) Rife, Edward (Lucille) Rife, Donald (Debbie) Rife, Linda (Randy) Patrick, Diane (Pat) Damon, Shirley Jackson, Donna (Ed) Dornseif, and Marsha Merrit.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harold A. Durnell; brothers, Richard Schaefer, William Rife, and Michael Rife; and sisters, Sandra Atkinson and Catherine Rife.
A funeral service will be held at 6:00 PM on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Covington Memorial Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, Fort Wayne. Family and friends may gather for visitation from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, prior to the service. Judy will be laid to rest privately beside her beloved husband.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Doug Messmann
October 2, 2025
It's been many many years but I'd recognize Judy's picture anywhere. I remember Judy from all those Saturdays bowling junior leagues at Key Lanes with Scott and Greg. Harold was older but I remember him too. She was always there watching us bowl and I especially remember her being at all of our City Tournaments events cheering us on. I'm so sorry you guys lost Judy and you have my family's and my sympathies.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
8408 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Make a Donation
in Judy Durnell's name
People and places connected with Judy
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Judy's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Judy Durnell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
