Church, Judy Campbell
Judy Campbell Church “Muz” She danced into the lives of many, beginning on January 17, 1925. She waltzed into heaven on August 10, 2016. Judy was born in Oklahoma, raised in Georgia, and settled in the small town of Altavista, VA.
She told stories of life growing up, which was not an easy life. Hard work consumed her life, along with her little brother, Jimmy. Their mother, Blanche Campbell, ran the Commonwealth Hotel in Altavista, and also took in sewing to make ends meet. Judy waited tables and attended Phillips Business College. Her first job consisted of gluing felt feet on miniature love chests manufactured by the Lane Company. During that time, she met Warren Church and married. For the next 35+ years, they made their home in Altavista, finally settling in Hurt, VA. In 1956, along came a baby girl named October Joy and better known as Tobie and who called her “Muz.” During those years, Judy loved to entertain, cook, play bridge, and enjoy friends. The door was always open. Judy loved pretty clothes, make-up, and her high heels. Although she attended many dances, believe it or not, she had no sense of rhythm, but dreamed of learning to dance. And dance she did …
Warren passed away in 1980 and she remained in Hurt. Several years later, she met and married a country gentleman, who lived in Riner, VA. The new life started out great for them, but after some twists and turns it, too, was over. Because Judy had made a new life in the area, she settled in Christiansburg, VA, which was her final residence.
The last 20+ years were wonderful for Judy. She was surrounded by great friends, clubs, parties, happiness, and wonderful memories. Frank Sanatra’s “I Did It My Way,” depicts Judy to a “T.” These adjectives have been linked to her – strong, fighter, awesome, unfiltered, determined, and complex. There was also kindness, giving, and love. Judy lived her life as she wished and on her own terms.
In addition to Warren, Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Warren Elwin Campbell and Blanche Belle Lewis, along with her brother, James Stuart Campbell. She is survived by her daughter October Bentz (Tobie) and her husband, Kenneth Bentz of Bent Mountain, VA. In addition, she is survived by nieces Jean Campbell and husband Russ Hayden of Stow, MA and Leslie Campbell of Crozet, VA; nephews Stuart Campbell and wife Melanie of Amherst, VA; Doug Campbell and wife Ann of Richmond, VA; and Clyde Campbell and friend Sylvia of Powhatan, VA; and their respective families. Judy is also survived by numerous friends, her “illegitimate” children (Cathy and Randy Thompson; David and Patsy Hosner; Debbie and Richard Krutchkoff; and many others), and the wonderful ladies who were her 24/7 caregivers. The family would like to specifically thank Dr. Scott Jamison (who Judy thought of as a son) and his entire staff, who cared for Judy for many years; Judy’s steadfast companion Oliver Strawn; and her 24/7 caretakers Kim Weeks, Martie Miller, and Chris Fones. Also special friends Tammy and Lenny Hall and David and Diane Yopp.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at noon and immediately followed by her memorial service at McCoy Funeral Home, 150 Country Club Drive, Blacksburg, VA. Internment will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens. Memorial gifts may be made to the Humane Society of Montgomery County (HSMC), 1183 Flanagan Drive, Christiansburg VA 24073; to the Christiansburg Presbyterian Church, 107 W Main St, Christiansburg, VA 24073, or to the charity of your choice.
The Heavens are about to shake, rattle, and roll…Put on those dancing shoes and grab onto a shining star, Muz – may the breezes sway a tune for your eternity.