Obituary of Judith E. Johnson

Judith Elaine Davis Johnson, 82, of Cortland, NY, passed away Wednesday, November 26, 2025. She was born in Cortland, NY on March 14, 1943, the daughter of Ralph and Marjorie (Hine) Davis. She was a resident of the Cortland/Homer area all her life. Judy was a 1961 graduate of Homer High School. After attending Buffalo State Teacher's College, she taught arteducation in Sidney, NY, Cortland Jr. High and for 24 years at St Mary's School in Cortland. She and Linda Kline set up the St. Mary's art program. They were both proud and pleased to be a part of the creating, fellowship, fun and laughter. For fifteen years she also ran a summer art program for children in her home studio, Stable Arts Studio. As a member of St Mary's church, she played guitar and sang in the first folk group choir and was also a religious ed. teacher. For a short time she wrote a blog on Facebook called Cogitatin' which reflected her uncomplicated, down to earth common sense, deep love of God and his Word. She enjoyed the guitar, piano, singing, sewing, writing, cooking, making cards (especially Christmas ones) and making books for her grandchildren, who were her greatest joy. Judy had a deep love for her father's family, one of six children and her many cousins. She wanted everyone to remember the good times growing up and those who came before. As a result, she created a book titled "The Davis Book" compiling many photos (with the help of her brother Jerry), which was printed and shared with family. Judy is survived by her brother Jerry (Marilyn) Davis of Clayton, NY and sister, Barbara VanDusen of Homer. NY; daugther Maureen and sons, Joshua and David of Cortland; daughter Julie Johnson (Jason Wright) and their daughter, Ruby of Trumansburg, NY; daughter Amy (David) Mittelstadt of Vista, CA; and son, Timothy (Megan) Johnson and sons, Lucas and Noah of Cortland, along with several nieces and nephews. Judy was preceded in death by her husband Donald; parents Marjorie and Ralph Davis; brother Jon Davis, sister in laws Mary Metcalf and Aileen Johnson, and brother in law Robert (Mary) Johnson of Cortland. Calling hours will be Wednesday December 3, 2025, 3-6 pm at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home Inc., 9 Lincoln Ave., Cortland NY, 13045. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday December 4, 2025, 10 am at the St. Mary's Church, Cortland NY. Burial will follow at the St. Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Mary's School in Cortland.