Judith (Judy) Elizabeth Goodman, 74, died peacefully at home on May 26, 2024.

Judy is survived by her beloved husband and best friend of 50 years, Jerry; her children, Amy Goodman, David Goodman (Melanie), and Beth Knipp, who blessed her with her cherished grandchildren, Zoey Sheese, Abigail Sheese, Savannah McCoy, and Brayden Knipp; and her brothers, Tim Rettig (Chris), Dan Rettig (Sherrie), and Art Rettig (Deborah). She is also survived by her special cousin and dear friend, Nancy (Charles) Haarlammert as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. She will be greatly missed by her much-loved granddog, Cosmo.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Reverend Glenn and Ruth Rettig (Imhoff), and her twin sister, Beth (Dave) Goebels.

Judy was a proud graduate of Heidelberg University who started her teaching career in Port Clinton, OH, where she met Jerry. After raising her children, she returned to teaching at Granville Elementary School for 14 years.

A proud minister's daughter, Judy was a devoted, lifelong member of St. John's United Church of Christ. She began volunteering at church camps during her teens and continued through her early twenties. Over the past 40 years, she participated in and volunteered at numerous church events.

Judy had a passion for traveling to historic sites across the US, including the Outer Banks (where she and Jerry honeymooned), visiting lighthouses up and down the East Coast, and spending relaxing vacations at a quiet South Carolina beach with a good book. As an avid fan of The Ohio State Marching Band, Judy also enjoyed the Ohio State University football pre-game and half-time shows. In her retirement, she enjoyed baking, spending time with her grandchildren, traveling with her best friend Jerry, and attending holiday concerts and plays.

Judy's warmth, dedication, and love for her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

"Suffering passes, while love is eternal. That's a gift that you have received from God. Don't waste it." ~Laura Ingalls Wilder

Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2024;  and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at Vensil Chute Funeral Home, 1850 W. Main Street, Newark.  A  Celebration of Life will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the funeral home with Rev. Mark Katrick officiating.  Burial will take place at a later date at St. John's Cemetery, Holgate, OH.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org or the St. John's United Church of Christ Giving Fund at support.ucc.org.