Judith Ann (Poppy) Humphrey

Judith Ann “Judy” Humphrey, age 86, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away on March 30, 2026. She was born on June 13, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, to Donald O. Poppy and Virginia Carolyn (Honert) Poppy.

Judy lived a life marked by devotion to her family, kindness to others, and a warm spirit that touched many people over the years. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, and she will be remembered for the steady care and encouragement she gave to those around her. Her presence brought comfort and strength to her family, and her memory will remain a treasured part of their lives.

She was united in marriage to Robert J. Humphrey on July 10, 1964, in Newark, NJ., who survives. Together they shared many years of companionship and family life. Judy was a devoted mother to Pamela (Michael) Fernbaugh of Osceola, Indiana, and Lisa (Sean) Walton of South Bend, Indiana. She also embraced her role as stepmother to Teresa Ward of Camillus, New York, Thomas (Mary) Humphrey of Camillus, New York, and James (Karen) Humphrey of North Syracuse, New York. Her family was one of her greatest joys, and she took great pride in each of them.

Judy was blessed with thirteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her happiness and pride. She enjoyed hearing about their lives, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing in the special moments that made her family so dear to her. Her love extended across generations, and her legacy will continue through the many lives she helped shape.

She is also survived by her sister, Carolyn Christine Bunta of West Sun City, Arizona, and her brother, David (Amy Nichols) Poppy of Indianapolis, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald O. Poppy and Virginia Carolyn (Honert) Poppy. The bonds of family were important to Judy throughout her life, and she valued the closeness she shared with her loved ones.

Judy worked at Elkhart Memorial High School in the cafeteria, where she served with dedication and a caring heart. She later retired after a career as a pre-school day care teacher, a role that reflected her natural patience, warmth, and love for children. She found fulfillment in helping others and in contributing to the daily lives of those she served. Her work was a meaningful part of her life, and she was respected for her dependable and gentle nature.

In her free time, Judy was a proud Moose member and enjoyed the fellowship and friendships that came with that association. Judy was a current member at First Northwest United Methodist Church and was a past member also at Calvary United Methodist Church in Elkhart, IN, Clay United Methodist Church and Lydick Unted Methodist Church. She appreciated being part of a community and valued the connections she made through shared experiences and companionship. Her life was enriched by the people she met and the relationships she built along the way.

Funeral Services for Judy will be held at 12:00 pm on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Palmer Funeral Homes – Welsheimer North Chapel 17033 Cleveland Rd. South Bend, IN 46635.  Friends may visit with family from 10:00 am-12:00 pm prior to the start of Services.  Burial will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.  In Lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to First Northwest United Methodist Church 333 N. Main St. South Bend, IN 46601.  Online condolences may be left at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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