Judith McDonald

Judith McDonald, 81, of Champion, formerly of Fowler, passed away Tuesday morning, April 23, 2024, at Champion Estates Assisted Living with her family by her side.

She was born August 29, 1942 in PA, the daughter of James and Viola Rockwell White.

She was a graduate of Vernon High School.

She married Robert “Tom” McDonald September 24, 1961.  He preceded her in death on January 21, 2010.

Judy had many passions throughout her life, none greater than her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a shining light whose influence will continue to be seen in their lives for many years.

Aside from being a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Judy owned and operated Judy’s Flower Basket in Fowler for twenty years. She was a gifted florist whose arrangements brightened the world of everyone in the community and brought smiles to generations.  Even after retiring as a florist, Judy loved nothing more than having her hands in the dirt, planting spring flowers and creating beautiful wreaths and arrangements for her family and friends.

She was a devoted resident of Fowler Township her entire life.  She was an active member of the Fowler Township Historical Society, an EMT with the Fowler Township Fire Department and a member of the Fowler Community Church.

Judy was perhaps most known in the community for her culinary skills and beautiful garden. Her kitchen always smelled of homemade noodles, fresh pies and a Sunday roast for family and friends.  When someone was in need, Judy was always the first to arrive with a hot meal and a comforting word.

She is survived by three daughters, Michelle (Gary) Smith of Southington, Cheryl (Bruce) Abraham of Garrettsville and Lori Rittwage of Warren; five grandchildren, Jim (Missy) Seaborn, Devin (Mike) Byard, Tommy Abraham, Cody Smith and Emma Rittwage; six great-grandchildren, Olivia, Jack and Lucas Seaborn and Tucker, Raina and Bryson Byard; a sister, Nancy (Bill) Cole of Fort Worth, TX and a brother, James White of Greenville, PA.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and a son, Robbie McDonald.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Akeso Hospice, 6600 Summit Drive, Canfield, OH 44406 or to the “Activity Department” of Champion Estates Assisted Living, 1 Windsor Place, Warren, OH 44483.

Services were held at Dugan Cemetery Chapel on Thursday, April 25, 2024 with Rev. Gary Meikle officiating

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Judith McDonald, please visit our floral store.