Judith (Judy) A. James

Judith “Judy” James was born on July 19, 1944 and went home to be with our Heavenly Father on July 1st, 2026. She is survived by Thomas “Tom” James, her husband of 60+ years. She was the daughter of Lester and Maxine Grenard both who have gone on before her. She is survived by her children Tim(Lori) James, Tammy Van Winkle, and Todd(Cora) James. Grandchildren Justin(Sara) James, Eric (Lacey) James, Alex(Teagan) Van Winkle, Jordan (Kendra) Van Winkle, Matthew (Jessica) James, Hayden James, and Cooper James. She is also survived by her great grandchildren Trevor (Kara) Smith, Hannah Smith, Maddie Smith, and Mary James and her brothers Charles and Steve(Pam) Grenard.

Judy was a wonderful, caring compassionate mother, grandmother, sister, great grandmother, wife, aunt, cousin and friend. She taught her kids the importance of faith, and demonstrated discipleship by teaching kindergarten and first-grade Sunday school for over a decade, always holding on for that one more kid. She was part of the altar guild, did events with Lutherwood through her ladie's group, participated in Sunday School and small groups. Judy served God and the community by helping establish and run the church food pantry for 13 years. She loved and cared for so many kids and families as a pediatric nurse. When she retired she worked for Senior Services as a housekeeper and respite provider. She was more than a paid provider, her clients became family and she went over and beyond for them.

Judy cared for her parents and in-laws, her Aunts and her grandmother and was a good example of how to care for aging family members. She was a Girl Scout leader, 4-H leader and den leader. She helped her children raise their kids - Wednesdays were "grandma" days. She helped with homework, 4-H projects, took boys to free movie days. Every year there were Grandma Vacations. The boys got to take turns picking where they went. There was always an amusement park attached despite the fact she hated rides. She spoiled them and the great-grands rotten on those trips. Souvenirs and going from fast food to fast food restaurant to make sure they all had what they wanted for meals. So many amazing memories. She was the most supportive grandma never missing a swim, football or soccer event. She rooted for every kid on the team and taught her family the value of service, faith, compassion, family and a strong work ethic.

A celebration of Judy's life will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, 9201 E County Rd 100 N, Avon, IN 46123. Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm.  

In leu of flowers please make a donation to Our Shepherd Lutheran Church Food Pantry or the Hendricks County Senior Services