Julia "Judy" M. Smith, 81, of Defiance, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 21, 2026, surrounded by her family and loved ones.

Judy was born on March 25, 1945 in Defiance, Ohio to Delores Laney. She spent her life in the Defiance and Paulding areas, where she worked at several local businesses, including Finally Happens and Alco in Paulding. She was married to the love of her life, Richard "Dick" Smith for 35 years, until his passing in 1999.

Her greatest achievement and deepest joy was raising her family, whom she loved dearly and supported throughout her life. Judy will be remembered for her dedication to her loved ones and the simple, meaningful life she built around family and care for others.

She will be greatly missed by her son, Richard (Julie) Smith of Van Wert, OH, and her daughters, Tammy Lynn (Richard) Severence of Paulding, OH, Ronda (Dave) Rochester of Stryker, OH, and Shelia Smith (Rod Webb) of Defiance, and her brother, Gene (Kay) Laney of Hicksville. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Danielle (Brett) Carder, James (Alexis) Florence, Monica Florence, Misty (Scott) Rison, Cody (Alexis) Rochester, Jordan Rochester, Hailey Smith, and Mimi Gilbert, along with 20 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and not to forget all the bonus kids, grandkids, and family that she has acquired over the years. Judy will also be missed by her grand-pups and her cat, Monster.

Judy enjoyed traveling with her best friend who she considered her sister, JoAnn Feeney. Her favorite place outside of being with her family was vacationing in Tennessee. She also enjoyed taking rides on the Harley and golf cart. Judy loved watching the humming birds from her back porch.

She was preceded in death by her husband Richard "Dick" Smith, her mother Delores Laney, her brother Ronnie Laney, Her grandmother Freda Ankney, and her grandson Rodney Webb.

She will be remembered as the absolute best Ma, Mother, Momma Sita, Granny, Mama, Maumee, sister and friend. She never knew a stranger and was the most kind, caring person. No amount of words can describe the amazing lady she was and the void of losing her brings to her family.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 11-2 and 4-8 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 pm on Monday, June 29th at the funeral home, with one hour of visitation before the service from 11-12. Judy will be laid to rest in Ayersville Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Ft. Defiance Humane Society, or Paulding County Dog Shelter. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.