Judy K. Gragg

Judy K. Gragg, 84, of Quincy, passed away Friday, November 7, 2025 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.
Born December 29, 1940, in Quincy, IL, Judy's parents included Stanley and Marjorie Elizabeth (Durk) Kinder and later in life included a stepfather, Samuel W. Smith. She was married to James E. Gragg on July 31, 1960 at Salem Church in Quincy, IL. He preceded her in death on March 12, 1998.
Survivors include her two sons, Jeffrey K. Gragg (Lori) and James S. Gragg (Stacey), all of Quincy, IL; two grandsons, Jeremy W. Gragg and Evan J. Gragg; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Judy was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; two brothers, LeRoy Holm and Delbert Holm; one sister, Joyce Brewington; and one step-father, Samuel Smith.
After graduating from Quincy High School, Judy pursued her passion for helping others by obtaining her nursing degree. She devoted 37 years of her life to a fulfilling career as a registered nurse at St. Mary's Hospital and Blessing Hospital, touching countless lives with her kindness and expertise before retiring in 1998. Judy's commitment to her profession was a testament to her caring nature and her desire to make a difference in the world.
Beyond her professional achievements, Judy was a woman of many talents and hobbies. Her love for gardening was evident in the vibrant flowers and bountiful vegetables that adorned her garden. She took pride in canning the fruits of her labor, sharing the harvest with friends and family. Judy's interest in genealogy led her to explore the branches of her family tree.
A skilled craftswoman, Judy found solace and joy in crocheting, sewing, embroidery, and knitting. She contributed to her church by making care blankets and crafted embroidered dish towels. Her artistic side also shone through in her crafts and paintings, with landscapes being her favorite subject. Judy's love for reading was lifelong; from winning an award in high school for the most books checked out to maintaining an extensive personal library, her passion for literature was a constant source of pleasure and inspiration.
Judy's love for animals, especially her Boston terriers, was matched by her enjoyment of card games like pitch and rummy. However, it was her family that brought her the greatest happiness. The summer camping trips, exploring the country in their travel trailer and creating lasting memories at destinations like Myrtle Beach, were some of her most treasured moments. Judy's grandsons were the light of her life, and the time she spent with them was filled with love and laughter.
Judy's presence was a gift to all who knew her, and her absence will be deeply felt. Her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all the lives she touched.
Friends and Family are invited to Judy's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Monday, November 24, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL. A Funeral Ceremony will follow at 11:00 am with Dr. Tom Dickerson officiating. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Horizons Food Pantry or Blessing Foundation- Hospice.