Judith Ann Walburn

née Stafford

February 8, 1942 – October 28, 2026

Forever Loved, Forever Remembered

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Judith Ann Walburn (née Stafford), the beloved matriarch of a family she cherished beyond measure. Judy lived a beautiful life filled with kindness, resilience, laughter, and an unwavering optimism that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Judy was the kind of person whose smile could brighten any room. She had a wonderful sense of humor, a warm and welcoming heart, and a remarkable ability to find the good in almost any situation. Funny, wise, and endlessly positive, she had a way of lifting the spirits of those around her and making everyone feel valued, comfortable, and loved.

She loved being a homemaker and creating a home where the door was always open and everyone was welcome. Over the years, she became a second mother to many of the children who found their way into her home. Her warmth, kindness, and wonderful sense of humor made it a place where everyone felt they belonged. She embraced the laughter, the mischief, and the countless shenanigans that came with raising her four daughters and having a house full of kids. Those years were filled with fun, unforgettable memories, and the kind of love that made her home a special place for so many.

Judy also found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved getting lost in a good book, working on crossword puzzles, spending time with family and friends, and sharing stories and laughter. Whether gathered around a table with loved ones or enjoying a conversation with someone new, she had a special way of making ordinary moments memorable.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arnold Walburn, and her cherished daughter, Marci, both of whom held an irreplaceable place in her heart. She was also preceded in death by her parents, a grandson, and a great-granddaughter. Through the heartbreak of these losses, Judy continued to face life with remarkable strength, love, and optimism, never losing the warmth and kindness that made her so special.

Judy is survived by her three loving daughters, Laura Moore of Hoschton, Georgia; Mary Walburn of New Boston, Ohio; and Michele Walburn of Portsmouth, Ohio, along with her many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends. Each of them carries special memories of Judy and the unconditional love she so generously shared.

Today, we find comfort knowing Judy is reunited with those she loved and missed so dearly. We can almost picture her beautiful smile and the joy of those long-awaited embraces, surrounded once again by love, laughter, and peace.

Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the countless memories, lessons, and love Judy leaves behind. Her legacy lives on through the generations she helped nurture and the countless lives she touched. Her optimism, strength, kindness, and love will continue to shine through those who knew and loved her.

We will miss her more than words can express. We will miss her smile, her laughter, her wisdom, and simply knowing she was there. But most of all, we will miss the way she made the people around her feel loved. That is a gift that time can never take away.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered.

May she rest peacefully, wrapped in the love of those who awaited her and forever held in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Please Join Us in Celebrating Her Life

Please join us as we celebrate the beautiful life of a truly wonderful woman, and remember the love, laughter, and joy Judy brought to so many.

Monday, November 2, 2026

Swick-Bentley Funeral Home · New Boston, Ohio

Visitation at 6:00 p.m. | Funeral service at 7:00 p.m.

Brother Joe Johnson will officiate the funeral service.