Judy M. Hale

Judith Melissa Hale, age 79 of Niles, Michigan, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on the morning of September 26, 2024.  Judy was born February 10, 1945, in Huntington, Indiana, to the late Kenneth P. and Genevra E. (Kelley) Wright. Following her graduation from high school, Judy enrolled at Southwestern Michigan College and graduated with her associate degree in Nursing. In May of 1963, she married James Richard “Rich” Hale.  Rich preceded her in death in May of 1997.
Surviving are her children Rhonda (David) Lusk and Teresa Messenger, both of Niles, and Cheryl (Joe) Fortuna of Brixey, Missouri  Surviving as well are 9 grandchildren; Kaitlyn Prentkowski, Kelsey (Mark) German, Emily Hoover, Darla (Ryan) Casey, Dustin Messenger, Nick (Jessica) Fortuna, Joey Fortuna, Joline (Adam) Derda and Charline Fortuna, along with 6 great grandchildren Lucas, Joey, Olivia, Trace, Gracie and Quinn.  Also surviving is her brother, James (Jan) Wright of Spearfish, South Dakota, her sister-in-law, Sharon Cassidy of Fernley, Nevada and her brother-in-law, Bill Reichert. She was preceded in death by her sister, Sarah Reichert.
Cremation will take place and services for Judy will be private.  Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Care of Mishawaka has been entrusted with her care.
Judy was employed as a surgical nurse for more than 20 years with Memorial Hospital of South Bend and the Lakeland Hospital system in Niles.  Judy’s love for others extended beyond her family—she was known for devoting her life to helping people, both personally and professionally.
One of her favorite pastimes was visiting casinos, where she never met a stranger. Whether she was playing a game or chatting with fellow gamblers, Judy’s warmth and friendliness always shone through.
Her love for animals, especially cats and horses, was a big part of her life. In her younger days, she proudly showed horses in competitions. She also loved classic TV shows and was a huge fan of Judge Judy. Family vacations were important to her, and she treasured her trips to places like Mackinac Island and Spearfish, South Dakota. Judy also enjoyed playing games online with her loved ones, always finding ways to stay connected.
Most of all, Judy was a woman whose heart was always with her family. She loved nothing more than being a grandmother, helping raise her granddaughters with care and dedication.
To light a virtual candle, share a story of Judy’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the Tribute Wall tab above.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SNAP (Spay Neuter) at Pet Friendly Services at http://www.familypethealthcenter.com