Judith Jean (Williams) Smith passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, at Beehive Homes in Helena, Montana, surrounded by her family. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and wife.
In Loving Memory of Judy
Judy was born in Great Falls, Montana on February 23, 1939, and lived her entire life in Montana, a place she loved. She married Sidney Smith and together they had four children, and even though they divorced he remained an important part of her family.
Judy was a loving mother, cherished grandmother and dear friend to many. A lifelong resident of Montana, she touched countless lives with her warmth, creativity and infectious laugh. For 40 plus years, she owned a private childcare business in Helena where she took tender loving care of children of all ages and multiple generations of families. She was also a care giver to many of her grandchildren, and other family members who have wonderful memories of sitting at her yellow table eating lunch and celebrating birthdays. They all share a deep love for her. Judy’s greatest joy and passion was to care for those around her and give back to families by loving their children. Many of her daycare children, even as adults, would come back and visit her, staying in touch through calls, letters and visits. Her interest in the stories and accomplishments in their lives was endless.
She loved snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, bike riding, boating, horseback riding into the Bob Marshall and gardening. Judy was an artist, sharing this creativity with everyone around her through her pottery, cooking, coloring, and countless hours on crafts with so many.
Judy was a true warrior, possessing both remarkable strength and the tenderest of hearts. She faced breast cancer with unwavering courage and resilience, ultimately emerging victorious. Judy was a passionate supporter of the Susan B. Koman Foundation and proudly participated in the “Race for the Cure” for many years, walking alongside family and friends to raise awareness, and honor the fight against breast cancer. In the last 10 years she was diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a rare neurological disorder. The disease may have captured her body, however, left her mind untouched. She remained gentle, kind, and beautiful up to the end. It will be her infectious laugh and beautiful smile that will remain in our memories forever.
In the final years of her life, Judy made her home at Beehive Homes in Helena, where she was surrounded by love and received compassionate, devoted care. The family will be forever grateful to all who cared for her.
It was Judy’s wish to donate her body to science; a final gift rooted in her generosity and care for others. Dressed in her Montana State T-shirt with her fingernails painted blue and gold, her wish was lovingly honored on Wednesday, January 7, when she was transferred to MSU’s Body Donation Program.
There, she will continue to give by helping educate future medical professionals through their study of anatomy. Judy will remain at MSU for the next two to four years, after which she will “graduate” and return to her family to be laid to rest beside her father in Townsend. That day, too, will be celebrated with love.
Preceded in death by her dad Kenneth Williams, mom Nina Rumney, brother Kenneth Williams, former husband, Sidney Smith, and her companion, Dick Tomcheck. She is survived by her children Curtis (Tia), Shawna (Kirk), Deidre, Brandon (Kirsten); 9 grandchildren Tessa, Shiloh, Shelby, Sharlene, Christine, Quinn, Colter, Paydin, Cooper and 5 great grandchildren, Teeghan, Mikaylee, Zoey, Evee, Jude. As well as, sister Charlotte Hutsell, sister-in-law JoAnn Williams, nieces, nephews, and many cousins.
A gathering of family and friends to celebrate her life will be held in May 2026, with details to follow.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a gift in the name of Judith Smith to St. Peter’s Health Hospice 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601 – Beehive Homes 9 Bumblebee Court, Helena, MT 59601 – Montana Body Donation Program, MSU 937 Highland Blvd, Ste. 5220, Bozeman, MT 59715.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Sue Weingartner says
Judy was a wonderful and kind person with a beautiful soul. Her warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit made the world a better place, and her presence will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Kristie says
Judy was such a joy to take care of at The Legacy Assisted Living that later became BeeHive. She always had a smile and a sense of humor despite any circumstance. She left a huge impact on many and will be missed.
Mary Rehm says
Judy was a daycare provider for our 2 children. She was so caring and adventurous with them, everyday at daycare was exciting! We thank her for all she provided and the memories our now grown adults kiddos have. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Annell Fillinger says
Judy took care of my daughter many years ago. I have such fond memories of her warm smile and welcoming demeanor. My daughter, Stacy, loved being in Judy’s home and I will be forever grateful for her loving care. She was truly a gift from God. My condolences to the family. May God’s love and grace surround you during this time.
Evy Burris Sass says
Dear Family & True Loved Ones of Judy that always made Life Happy, Safe & Comforting especially in her final years. Judy was a true & loyal friend of mine going back to the early 70s. We sure had some unforgettable happy times summer, winter, fall & spring. We could write a bestselling true adventures book that would be full of laughter, some drama, & true good friendship that is hard to find these days. Farwell my Sweet Friend Judy. I wish I could have spent more time in your final years, You were always on my mind and I wish you God’s Blessing & Keep You. Evy Burris Sass.
JoAnne Munk Stephen says
Judy was an amazing friend & day care provider for my son Scott♥️ We both loved her & had so many wonderful memories of her, her beautiful children & her AMAZING sense of humor❣️ Scott absolutely adored her & she adored him. I moved from Helena 8 years ago to my hometown in Sheridan, MT & that’s where I remain today. I look forward to sharing memories with her family in May. Sadly, my precious Scott passed away 2 years ago, so I know he was there to meet Judy when she arrived in Heaven & that makes my heart happy ❣️ They will share so many wonderful memories together♥️ Judy, you will forever be in my heart & I will ALWAYS be grateful for the love you gave to Scott & me, you were Scotty’s 2nd Mom & you helped me raise him into the sweetest & amazing boy in all the world♥️ Love you forever
Diane Tordale says
Judy was a loving and caring lady. I first met Judy when I was still in school and worked at the Gates of the Mountains. She always called me by the nickname from there, even the last time I saw her. After moving to Helena, I saw her and Sid quite often and enjoyed our visits. She always had a smile and a big hug. She will be missed.