Judith “Judy” M. {Smith} Whitehead, age 82, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Villa Springs. She was born on April 26, 1942, in Newport, Kentucky, to the late William and Alma Smith. Judy attended the Academy of Notre Dame of Providence in Newport, Kentucky and graduated in 1960. She married Tom Whitehead on May 28, 1966, at Corpus Christi Church, in Newport, Kentucky. Judy worked at Blank’s Pharmacy in Newport for 5 years, and then purchased Pic’s Café in South Newport in 1983, before retiring in 1996. In her spare time, especially in her younger years, she enjoyed coaching softball at Corpus Christi School. Judy donated many hours helping out at the school, where she impacted many young lives. Once she became a grandmother, her grandchildren were her everything; she loved them so much, and they all loved her dearly in return. She enjoyed watching her birds and taking care of her flowers. Judy is survived by her three children Cathy (Ed) Rawe, Kelly (Dan) Speier, and Tom Whitehead Jr.; seven grandchildren Daniel Speier Jr. Rachel (Travis) Benzinger, Tyler Rawe, Trevor Rawe, Brianna Speier, Olivia Whitehead and Remi Speier; one great grandchild River Benzinger; one brother Daniel Smith; and many other family members and friends. Judy was preceded in death by her sister Jeanine (Tony) Sanzere, her brother William (Judy) Smith Jr., and her parents. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 21, 2024, at 11:30am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with a visitation one hour prior from 10:30am until time of services. Interment to follow at St. Stephen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 21, 2024, at 11:30am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with a visitation one hour prior from 10:30am until time of services. Interment to follow at St. Stephen Cemetery.
At Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory, we understand what a difficult and sensitive time it is when a family member passes. We distinguish ourselves from other funeral homes in our commitment to making the funeral celebration a rewarding and memorable experience for family and friends.
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Robert McCray says
June 19, 2024 at 1:24 pmWe became dear friends years ago because of her involvement with Corpus Christi. Later, she became the owner of Pic’s Cafe, and then we became neighbors on Douglas Drive! She was a very talented person, working with our children in Newport. She was certainly an inspiration to all. My dear friend, I will miss you! Heaven gained an Angel. You are safe.
Vicky & Jimmy Gemmer and family says
June 20, 2024 at 3:39 amWe have such great memories of Judy and Tom, Cathy, Kelly and Tommy while owning Pics across the street from us. Always funny times that we cherish so much. Great family. Judy your reunion with Tom in heaven will be awesome. All of you have our sincere condolences and our love and prayers.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.