Judy Mae Trent Waddell

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Judy on the afternoon of August 31, 2026 surrounded by her family. A devoted wife, loving sister and aunt, proud cat mom, and an honored veteran of the United States Air Force.

Judy was born January 15, 1958 to the late Ralph and Lillie Trent. She graduated from Reidsville High School in 1976 and attended Rockingham Community College where she studied art.

Judy was a woman whose love knew no bounds. She cherished her husband, family, and beloved cats deeply, finding joy in the simple moments shared with those she loved. Her compassionate heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering loyalty touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. She had a way of making the people around her feel cared for and loved, and her presence brought warmth and comfort to those who knew her best.

Judy’s cats, Sam, Grayson, and Gus, were more than pets- they were her fur babies. She took great joy in caring for them and anyone who knew Judy knew just how much her furry companions meant to her. The love and tenderness she showed them reflected the generous heart she carried throughout her life.

As a proud Air Force veteran of 22 years (active and reserves), Judy served her country with dedication, courage, and honor. Her strength and determination were reflected not only in her military service but throughout her life. She faced challenges with grace and remained a steadfast source of love and support for those who knew her.

She will be remembered as a devoted wife who loved deeply, a caring sister and aunt who treasured her family, and a devoted cat mom whose furry companions were truly part of her family. Her kindness, humor, strength, and generous spirit will forever be a blessing.

Though our hearts are broken by her absence, we are grateful for the years, memories, laughter, and love she gave us. Her life was a gift, and her memory will forever be a blessing.

She is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Fred “Doug” Waddell, her sisters, Carolyn Nittler and Janet Trent, and numerous nieces and nephews including great and great-great, and her cherished cats, Same, Grayson, and Gus.

Judy will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

May she rest in peace, knowing how very much she was loved.

There will be no memorial service, but a celebration of life for family and friends will be held at a further date.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, you would instead make a donation to the Rockingham County Animal Shelter in Judy’s name at www.rockinghamcountyanimalshelter.org.