Judith “Judy” Emily Wood

In loving memory of Judith “Judy” Emily Wood - a true artist with a flair for creativity - who brush-stroked her way through life and carved a special place in the hearts of all who knew her.

Judy left this canvas we call Earth on Aug. 11, 2023, at the age of 83, in Libby, Montana, her final masterpiece.

Born on Jan. 30, 1940, in Bellflower, Los Angeles, California, Judy was a brush-wielding force to be reckoned with. Her brushwork was as smooth as her personality and her wood and leather carving skills were awe inspiring.

Judy had the ability to make friends wherever she went and she gave whatever she had - to anyone who needed it.

Judy brought color and life to every room, showcasing her artistic prowess through her distinctive paintings and intricately carved masterpieces. She had an extensive gallery of artwork that inspired and delighted all who had the pleasure of laying their eyes upon it. Many of her breathtaking pieces found new homes through sales and generous gestures.

Judy’s exceptional artistic talent also found a way to her voice - as she was a most extraordinary singer.

Surviving this vivacious artist are her beloved children - legendary musical theatre actor/singer/director/teacher Shauna Kelln with her husband Dr. Brent, residing in Poulsbo, Washington, the crafty and creative artist/nuclear pharmacy tech Rhonda Panks of Brandon, Florida, Mark Looman and wife Darleen who currently leave their impressionistic wisdom on young students in Shenzhen, China, the imaginative and artistic genius Annjannette Vainio and her art-loving spouse, Dr. Shawn, dwelling in Girdwood, Alaska, the rocket launching rancher and “Alaskan reality show” icons Rochelle Wood and partner Chris Flickinger from Kodiak, Alaska, and electronics savant and superlative fiction writer Jason Wood with his creative cook and horse whisperer wife Mandy, currently residing in Libby, Montana.

Judy’s legacy also lives on through her eight remarkable grandchildren - Tom, Talena, Connor, Landon, Annie, Aaron, Kaitlyn, great-grandchild Gypsy, and the future Picasso, Anja.

Completing the masterpiece of Judy’s life’s artistry, she is greeted beyond the veil by her dear husband Richard (Dick) Wood, always her art companion. Joining him in the ethereal gallery is her adventurous brother Skip Larsen and her endlessly supportive parents, Walter and Beatrice Larsen, who encouraged and nurtured her unique talents.

Judy’s journey was a kaleidoscope of passion and endless creativity.

She brought an imaginative whimsy to the world, leaving us with colors that never fade and shapes that dance eternally in our hearts. She said what she meant and meant what she said - and made us laugh in the process. Oh yeah... she cooked a little...

As we honor and celebrate Judy’s vibrant essence, let us remember her playful spirit, her profound love for her craft, the way she wove colors together with a touch of mischief (okay, more than a “touch”..) and her profound love and pride in her children and grandchildren - as well as her joy in hanging out on her porch, in all seasons, surrounded by her very prolific man eating Virginia creeper (which does creep faster than you think..) with her best friend Janice Brown Thomas.

She bid us farewell, leaving us to cherish her memories and share her stories, filling the world with artistry, joy, and an abundance of laughter.

Please reminisce, laugh, and toast to the colorful legacy of our beloved Judy Wood - an artist, friend and mom who now adds a splash of brilliance to heaven’s canvas!