Judy Trees

Judy L. Trees

HARTFORD CITY, IN-- Judy L. Trees, 86, passed away Thursday evening, Aug. 28, 2025 at IU Health/Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie.

She was born in Matthews, Indiana, on April 8, 1939, the daughter of Robert and Ada Mae (Rutledge) Careins, graduating from Gaston High School, class of 1957. On January 1, 1958, she married David E. Trees. They celebrated over fifty-four years of marriage, prior to his passing on March 19, 2012.

Judy continued her education, receiving her bachelor's degree from Ball State University, in 1964, then obtaining her master's degree in math education from Ball State, in 1971. She spent over thirty-four years in the Blackford School system, teaching mathematics, predominantly.

In addition to teaching, Judy sold real estate in this area, being affiliated with Connie Forcum Realty, since 1989. Judy served on the Licking Township Advisory Board and also as Licking Township Trustee from 1999-2007.

Judy had a passion for traveling after retirement. She was a member of Oak Chapel Methodist Church, where she had served as treasurer and was an active member of the Matthews Lions Club. She also was active at the Blackford County Senior Citizens Center and had recently participated in various local, card-playing clubs. Judy had also belonged to the former Upland Chapter #411, Order of Eastern Star and the Retired Blackford Teacher's Association.

She is survived by three sons: Mark Trees, Steve (Angie) Trees, Bruce (Bobbie Sue) Trees; five brothers: Terry Careins, R. J. Careins, Bobby Careins, Chuck (Edith) Careins and Danny Careins. Six sisters: Doris Rodman, Linda Trees, Sharon Spicer, Toby Chafin, Sandra (Ed) Divver and Cinda Careins. Nine grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, a great-great-granddaughter; her special Aunt: Marge Kibbey; sister-in-law: Marsha (Clamme) Ayres and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by her son Russell B. Trees on Apr. 14, 2015 along with two brothers: Tommy and Mike Careins and brothers-in-law: Dane Rodman, Jack Trees and Bill Chafin.

Services will be at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Pastor Gary Newton presiding. Burial immediately follows in Matthews Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, and after 10 a.m. Thursday, prior to services at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Blackford Community Foundation, with envelopes available at the funeral home. www.WatersFunerals.com