Judith M. Keefer 1944-2026

Judith, known affectionately by family and friends as “Judy,” was born April 20, 1944, in Massillon, a daughter of Joseph Benedict and Mary Louise Martin Seifert.

She graduated from Tuslaw High School and later moved to the Youngstown area in 1973.

Judy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister. She cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her great joy.

In addition to being a homemaker, Judy worked as a church secretary at Bridge of Hope Church on Glenwood Avenue in Boardman. She was an active and dedicated member of New Life Church in Poland, where she volunteered and participated in many church activities.

Judy left an indelible mark on everyone and everything she encountered. She was an award-winning artist with many oil paintings to her credit. She had a knack for fixing broken things and reimagining things. Her creativity knew no bounds. Judy was also a member of the YMCA, where she enjoyed water aerobics and art classes. Most of all, Judy loved Jesus and wanted everyone to know Him personally. She brought light and life wherever she went. She will be dearly missed.

Besides her parents, Judy was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Raymond G. Keefer, whom she married April 30, 1966, and who passed away Oct. 6, 2002; her son, Mark Keefer; and her brother, Ronald Seifert.

Judith is survived by her mother, Mary Seifert of Massillon; her two daughters, Justine R. Vidrios of Peoria, Arizona, and Juleen M. Keefer of Boardman; her three grandchildren, Bradley Vidrios, Rayna Vidrios and Meleah Vidrios of Phoenix, Arizona; and her seven siblings, Mary Jo Meyer, Fr. Michael Seifert, Raymond Seifert, Suzanne (Mike) Ziegelhofer, Paul Seifert, Jane (Bob) Heitger and Joseph (Janie) Seifert, all of Massillon.

Friends and family may call 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at New Life Church, 2250 E. Western Reserve Road, Poland. A funeral service celebrating Judy’s life will immediately follow at 11:30 a.m., with Pastor Dave Allman officiating.

Interment will take place in Poland Riverside Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main St., Poland, OH 44514. Visit www.beckerobits.com to share memories and condolences with Judy’s family.

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