Judith Jean "Judy" Reitz, 82, of Gibson City passed away at 12:05 a.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday March 21, 2026 at American Lutheran Church, 905 E. 1st St, Gibson City with Pastor Richard Likeness officiating.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Saturday at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Judy was born April 15, 1943 in Danville the daughter of Harley and Blanche Byers Nelson. She married Gary Reitz on June 30, 1963 at St. James United Methodist Church, Danville. He survives.

Along with her husband, Gary, she is survived by two daughters, Sherry Diamond of Gibson City, Vickie (Kurt) Runyon of Fairbury; grandson, Kane (Tarrah) Runyon; great grandson, Nox Runyon; and sister, Luanne Stuebe of Edwardsville.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Sandy Martin.

Judy spent her life caring for others. We called it 'putting her cape on.' When someone needed help, she was there! First, she cared for her daughters as a stay-at-home mom, teaching them all they needed to know before kindergarten, keeping them well-dressed with clothes that she sewed herself and very creative Halloween costumes.

She worked first as a CNA and then an RN, having returned to college while her daughters were young. She worked primarily in OB and NICU, caring for moms and babies. She taught a health careers class at GCHS, influencing many to make that their career. She was also a Girl Scout leader, in-home caregiver, driver at Telecare, school nurse, and parish nurse.

Judy and Gary provided a place to stay for several "kids" that needed their love and guidance. Most called her Mom or Grandma Judy. They remained a part of the family even after they moved on in their lives.

She loved spending time with family. She and Gary were always in attendance at all their girls' activities. They continued that tradition with their grandson, attending his band and sporting activities.

Judy and her grandson, Kane, had a special bond. She loved spending time with him and traveling across the country together.

She was very artistic and always had an art project in progress. Her hands were never idle, always gardening or creating something beautiful to share with the world. She was a talented painter and shared that gift with others, teaching classes as a member of the Illinois Heartland Decorative Artists.
She and Gary enjoyed raising whitetail deer for several years. Judy loved when people came out to see the deer. She bottle-fed many fawns when their mother would not care for them.

Memorials may be made to the Gibson Area Food Pantry or to the family. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.