Judith Jeffery Whittier

Judith Jeffery Whittier, 84, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2021 in Valparaiso, IN. A devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend, “Judy” was born July 13, 1937, in Toledo, OH, to parents Albert and Margaretta (Hamilton) Jeffery. She attended Thomas A. DeVilbiss High School in Toledo and Bowling Green State University in Ohio, where she was an active member of the Kappa Delta sorority. In 1960, she married Bernard “Barney” Whittier, also of Toledo, with whom she shared a life that took them from Toledo to Ridgewood, NJ, Cincinnati, Indianapolis and, ultimately, St. Joseph, MI, where they lived for more than 38 years. In 2018, the couple moved to Chesterton, IN, until Barney’s passing on February 27, 2019, their 59th wedding anniversary. Judy spent her final years in Valparaiso. Judy dedicated her life to Barney and their three daughters, Pamela Whittier of Venice, FL, Allison (Ed) Kurtz of Geneva, IL, and Carolyn Whittier of Valparaiso. She worked as an elementary and pre-school teacher and donated thousands of hours as a community volunteer. She enjoyed playing tennis and bridge, and was involved with garden clubs, newcomers clubs and the St. Joseph Heritage Center. She also sang and played handbells in church choirs and was an active member of women’s fellowship. In addition to her daughters, Judy is survived by her sister, Jane Vincent of Lambertville, MI; brother, David Jeffery of Hilton Head, S.C.; brother-in-law, Charles Edward (“Ted”) Whittier of Kerrville, TX; and two grandchildren: Bryn and John Kurtz of Geneva. On Monday, August 30, 2021, at 11:30AM, Judy will be laid to rest in the Memorial Garden at the First Congregational Church, 2001 Niles Ave., St. Joseph. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the First Congregational Church Remembrance Fund. Those wishing to leave a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 269-556-9450.