Judy Frances Garvin 1944-2026

She was born June 10, 1944, to Virginia and Frank Garvin in Youngstown and attended St. Patrick’s School and Cardinal Mooney High School, graduating in 1962. Judy married Homer “Greg” Waller on July 10, 1965, and gave birth to sons Greg in March 1967 and John in May 1969. A loving mother, grandmother and sister, she lived nearly her entire life in Youngstown, apart from the past seven months living in Midlothian with her son Greg and family to facilitate her care.

Judy was a lifelong reader and patron of libraries and had a passion for history (especially ancient Egypt), antiques and collectibles. She enjoyed cooking, was a skilled seamstress and had an abiding love for animals. She had a sharp sense of humor and loved talking and laughing with family and friends. Judy also had a deep interest in family history and genealogy and was a wonderful storyteller.

Over the years, Judy worked in various clerical positions, including Southside Merchants and Compass Enterprises, but she always felt that her true vocation and calling was being a mother and homemaker. For those fortunate enough to be taken into her fold, she was a fierce defender and unwavering supporter who was quick to offer a sweet word or story of encouragement when it was needed most. Cross her or her loved ones, however, and those words could become arrows.

A selfless and compassionate person throughout her life, Judy could open her heart to any person or creature she felt was in need. She was a longtime supporter of Animal Charity and Angels for Animals and saved lives through her years of volunteer work with the suicide hotline. She found companionship and comfort in her pets, made sure to feed the birds and squirrels in winter, and lovingly helped heal the broken hearts or hurt feelings of loved ones.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents. Her memory will be cherished by her sister, Karen Hawn of Canfield; sons, Greg (Mira Straska) Waller of Midlothian, Virginia, and John (Maureen Frost) Waller of Youngstown; grandsons, Greg, John, Owen, Alex and Christopher Waller; great-granddaughters, Cece, Diana and Sophia; and great-grandson, Carson. She loved them greatly and was immensely proud of them all.

Friends and family may call 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday July 16, 2026, at Fox Funeral Home, Boardman, followed by a memorial Mass at 1 p.m. at St. Patrick Church, 1420 Oak Hill Ave., Youngstown.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations in Judy’s name can be made to Angels for Animals or Animal Charity of Ohio.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to give condolences to the family.

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