Judith W. Leatherman, 83, of Valparaiso passed away Thursday, January 11, 2024. She was born October 13, 1940, in Bridgeton, NJ to Henry J. & Mary (nee Greer) Behnke and attended Bryant College and Valparaiso University. Judith owned and operated the J.W. Leatherman & Assoc. Insurance Agency from 1985 – 1999 and was a graduate of the Life Underwriters Training Course. She was a member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church where she taught Sunday school, led a prayer group, and their youth group. Her love of family shone through with her passion for everything related to homemaking, epic camper visits with George and the grandkids, and with a myriad of opinions she “shared” to let you know she cared.
Judith married George E. Leatherman who preceded her in death in June of 2022. Survivors include children; Lew (Lisa) Willis, Jr. of Carmel, Cindy (Charlie) Douthett of Kouts & Doug (Vicki) Willis of Dayton, IN, sister, Peg (Vinnie) Farrell of Dover, PA, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by a brother, John Behnke, Jr.
A visitation will be held Saturday, January 20th from 11 am – 12 noon at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 505 Bullseye Lake Rd., Valparaiso with a memorial service beginning at 12:00 noon, Mother Cathy Carpenter officiating with refreshments to follow. Memorial donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Youth Group. Judith was a woman of quiet faith and she loved Jesus.
GUESTBOOK
I am so sorry to hear of your mothers passing. She was my best friend through grammar school and high school. We have so many wonderful times that we shared together. I am so thankful that I had a chance to visit her several years ago! She was a very special lady and will definitely be missed! I will certainly keep her family and friends in my prayers! -Sandy (Donn) Bohren
To the family the Judith Leatherman, please accept my condolences on your loss. I met Judith and George through St. Andrew's Church. She was among the first to welcome me there when I moved back to Valparaiso. She was gracious, thoughtful and warm-hearted. It was always great seeing her at the 8am service. She was and will always be to me one of the memorable faces and kind hearts of the church. It was a privilege to know her. -Tom Wheeland
I am so sorry to hear of your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Your mom and dad were such great people. I met them at St. Andrews church they were always so sweet. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. Judith fly high and go be with George! -Tari Parks
Ross and I are so sorry to hear of the death of Judith. She will always be remembered for her smile and kindness to us. Ross doing Judith and George’s wedding is one of his favorite memories from St. Andrew’s. Please know that your whole family are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you Cindy! -Father Ross and Pat Mack
I am so sorry to hear of your Dear Mom passing. Judith was an incredible lady with such a giving heart! She helped me through some very difficult times in my life and I will always be grateful for her and George coming into my life. She was such a sweet friend to my parents! May God help the entire family through this difficult time. God bless. -Susan Moser
