Mary Julia "Judy" Bennett Settle

Mary Julia “Judy” Bennett Settle, a ectionately known to many as “Ma,” of Owensboro, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the age of 97. She was born on November 5, 1928, in Calhoun, to the late Louis and Margaret Epley Bennett. Following World War II and his return from the Navy, she married the late Roy Settle from Rumsey. Judy was a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend to many. She was a lifelong member of Settle Memorial United Methodist Church.

Judy Settle was a presence, larger than life. Her legendary sense of humor and sharp wit could always make the room laugh. She had a comeback for every occasion and a refusal to take life, or herself, too seriously. Her perspective was a gift—a reminder that a little levity can brighten the darkest of days.

Judy possessed a timeless sense of style that was uniquely her own. Whether she was stepping out for an errand or hosting a formal dinner, she was always impeccably put together, radiating confidence and grace.

In her early years, she was a PTA volunteer and a supportive presence of organizations that in any way involved her family. She extended that same passionate fervor to supporting her kids and grandkids, especially in their sports. Judy was known to be the most vocal fan in the stands, turning every game into a grand performance, and was perhaps, on occasion or two, recognized by the o cials before the game even began.

Judy had a wide circle of friends of all ages, among them members of The Twenty and Four Club and her bridge club. She was a volunteer and supporter of the Help O ce. Judy loved Settle Memorial United Methodist Church. Faithful in her attendance, she cared for infants in the nursery, and “cooked” for Wednesday night gatherings, though cooking and conversation may have been out of balance.

Judy never simply existed; she lived fully, beautifully, and with a force of personality that will be profoundly missed.

Along with her parents, Judy is also preceded in death by her husband, Roy Settle; daughter, Becky Helmers; her son-in-law, John Helmers; and her brother, James David Bennett.

Her legacy of laughter and love lives on in her devoted family. Those left to cherish her are sons, David Settle and his wife Shelley and Mitch Settle and his wife Kim; her grandchildren, Sarah Hagan (Danny), Dr. Chris Altman (Enrique), Julie Moore (Mark), Emily Hamilton (Gary), Sydney Settle, Shelby Payne (Aaron), Eric Chappelaine, Chad Watson (Tina), and Nick Watson (Miranda); her great grandchildren, Tucker Hagan, Josie Hagan, Miles Moore, Gus Moore, Gia Hamilton, Jay Hamilton, Charlie Payne, Franklin Payne, Hayden Watson, Hudson Watson, Cambrie Watson, and Cayden Watson; her sister, Joyce Robertson of Bowling Green; her nephew, Steve Roberston; and niece, Mindy Bower; her caregivers and beloved friends Ashley Williams, Taylor Allen, and Kathi Haley; and just about everyone who had the occasion to meet her.

The family greatly appreciates Dr. Ben Keeley and his time, expertise, and compassion he devoted to her.

The memorial service for Judy Settle will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 19th at Settle Memorial United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the memorial fund of Settle Memorial United Methodist Church.

Direction is by Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory.

Memories and messages of condolence for the family of Judy Settle may be shared at www.glenncares.com.