Judith R. Burney, age 72, of Wells, passed away on Saturday, November 5, 2022 at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba.
Judy was born on August 2, 1950, in Rock, Michigan, the daughter of Walter and Virginia (Hill) Linjala. Judith was raised in Rock and attended high school there. She later went on to earn her Associate’s Degree from Bay de Noc Community College. Judith worked most reverently as the secretary of Cooper Office Equipment, but in her earlier years she was dedicated to being an advocate for disabled children in local elementary schools. She also was an avid crafter, making everything from wreaths, to necklaces and other beaded jewelry. She had a great eye for design. Judith was a loving mother and a wonderful sister, who always took the time to listen and be there for her family. She will be greatly missed.
Judith is survived by her son, Colin (Colleen) Burney, siblings Jeanne (Kenneth) LeDuc and John Linjala, nieces and nephews, Venessa Tillman, Kenny LeDuc, Lisa (John) Martin, Michael LeDuc, and Karen (Ray) Phillips, and grandkids Nathan Burney and Autumn, Kimberly, and J.J. Everson.
Judith was preceded in death by her son, Jesse Burney, her parents, Walter and Virginia, sister Karen Richards, and sister-in-law Yvonne Jokela.
Private services for Judith will be held at the convenience of the family.
Liz Coatsworth - Niceville, FL
Dear cousin Judy. How I loved our times growing up in West Rock and going out to the Escanaba River to swim.
Years later you welcomed my husband n I to your house in Ogden, Utah. You were always kind and loved to talk about antiques and your numerous projects.
Have fun with your siblings and parents up in Heaven. You will be remembered and missed.
Lisa Martin - Escanaba, MI
I will miss you my beautiful Auntie. You always made us laugh, wiped our tears, and taught us that WE ARE IMPORTANT PEOPLE! You taught us that self-love is so important. Auntie, I shall always remember from you, this quote: Life is too important to be taken seriously. You bought me a t-shirt with this quote on it for Christmas one year, when I was a struggling, emotional pre- teen. You taught us that humor is food for the soul! I shall always remember that quote from you, & I shall always remember how much you loved each and every member of our ADHD, dysfunctional family! (Lol!) You held us all in your heart, as we hold you in ours!
Vanessa Tillman - Jacksonville, FL
Aunt Judy,
I hope you knew how much you were loved and missed. I remember you comforting me with warm vanilla milk when I was small, and comforting me with words as an adult. I will miss the twinkle in your eye, and will always admire your inner strength. Thank you for being in my life.