Judith Hudson Sears, “Judy”, “JuJu” – born on May 10th, 1942, age 82, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 16th, surrounded by family after a long battle with Dementia. Born in Charlotte, Judy was the daughter of Blanche and Hoyle Hudson and was raised in Salisbury. She graduated from Boyden High School in 1961, earned a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics from Appalachian State University in 1965, and completed her Master’s in Special Education at the University of Alabama in 1967.
Judy dedicated her career to education and community service. She served as Assistant Director of Upward Bound at Mars Hill University, Director of Head Start in Madison County, and a Special Education teacher at Madison High School and Erwin Middle School for over 20 years. A natural leader, Judy never had to raise her voice—her warmth and dedication spoke for her. She was known for her joyful spirit, which brought light and laughter to all who knew her.
Judy found joy in simple pleasures—gardening, going to the gym, feeding the birds, taking mountain walks with Billy, long strolls on the beach, and staying connected with family and friends. Even after retirement, she remained deeply engaged in her community, volunteering with Mars Hill Methodist and Spruce Pine Methodist churches, serving as a Hospice volunteer, working at the food bank, and supporting early childhood literacy through the Imagination Library in Spruce Pine. JuJu’s greatest joy, however, was spending time with her grandchildren, cheering them on in sports and dance.
In later years, Judy and Billy treasured their daily visits to the Mitchell County Senior Center, enjoying meals, exercise, fellowship, and day trips with new friends. Her laughter, smile, and uplifting spirit remained infectious.
Judy is survived by her devoted husband of 60 years, Billy Sears; daughter Stacy Sears (Mary Sheryl); son Will Sears (Gail), both of Boone; and grandchildren Jake, Grace, and Kate Sears, as well as Grace, Carlton, and Cole Horine. She is also survived by her sisters Lynn Wilbourne and Libby Richardson, along with beloved nieces, nephews, and a special group of cousins who were like siblings to her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Blanche Sherrill and Hoyle Hudson, and stepfather Bill Sherrill.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Deerfield Ridge and the Medi-Home hospice team for their exceptional care. Judy also cherished the friendships she made at Deerfield Ridge and treasured her time spent with her dear friends in Spruce Pine, Sharon, Louise and Betty.
A celebration of life will be held at Spruce Pine United Methodist Church on Monday, March 24th at 3pm. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall following the service. Webb Funeral Home is serving the Sears family.
In honor of Judy’s memory, the family encourages an act of kindness to someone in need. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mitchell County Senior Center, 152 Ledger Scott Road, Bakersville, NC 28705.
