Judy Rhea Bolander

Judy Bolander entered into the presence of Jesus on August 19, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on December 20, 1941, in Mexia, Texas, Judy was the beloved daughter of the late William and Cleo Conway. Judy grew up surrounded by her extended family, as part of the close-knit Smart family. She cherished time spent with her aunts, uncles, and cousins, and eagerly looked forward to Smart family reunions and their Christmas party each year. She was proud of the deep family bonds and the strength of their love and traditions. In 1959, Judy married the love of her life, John T. “Jay” Bolander. They shared a devoted marriage filled with love and companionship until Jay's unexpected passing in 2007. Together, they raised two children, Robbie Bolander and John R. Bolander, who brought immense joy to their lives. Judy is survived by her son John R. Bolander and his wife Tammy, as well as numerous cousins and dear friends who will forever remember her warmth and kindness. She is also preceded in death by her daughter Robbie. Judy spent many years caring for her family members, including her mother and her daughter. She was devoted and resilient, even after the loss of her husband. Known for her strength and adventurous spirit, Judy embraced life with a love for laughter and a playful, silly side that endeared her to all who knew her. She was generous with her hugs, and her smile was a beacon of happiness for everyone around her. In 1993, Judy’s nephew Pat and his wife Shannon Ware welcomed twin daughters, Kaitlyn and Kara, into the world. These girls became like grandchildren to Jay and Judy, who cherished every moment spent spoiling them with glittery band-aids for non-existent injuries and sugar cookies filled with sprinkles. Their bond was a source of great happiness and fulfillment for Judy, adding even more love to her already generous heart. A longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Huntsville, Texas, Judy dedicated much of her time to volunteering in the church library, VBS and teaching Sunday School. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring those around her. Judy will be remembered for her unwavering faith, love of family, brilliant sense of humor and for the countless lives she touched. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. A service to honor Judy’s life will be held on August 23, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Huntsville, Texas, where friends and family will gather to celebrate and honor the faithful and loving life she lived. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Judy’s memory to the Prairie Grove Cemetery Endowment c/o Incommons Bank of Mexia PO Box 510 Mexia Texas 76667. Memorial condolences to the family may be made at www.shmfh.com.

Judy Rhea Bolander

December 20, 1941 - August 19, 2024