Judy's Memory Wall
We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Judy here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
Miss O'brien was a favorite teacher of everyone I knew. As a sixth grader I could feel her love for teaching and for her students. I attended the language arts camps she helped organize...what great memories. She was truly inspirational, and in hindsight and after reading her long list of accomplishments, it's even more obvious she had an amazing passion for what she did. I ran into her a handful of times after graduating. She was just as interested in the 'adult' me as she was as a sixth grader and those short conversations were warm and always welcomed. What a great loss not just for Dowagiac, but for the education profession in general.
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Corey Wallace
May 22nd, 2025 at 6:21pm
Judy lived down the road from me in Keeler for a time. She gifted my family with a dalmatian who brought much joy to our household. I am grateful for that. Judy was known for her superior teaching skills. I was fortunate to be one of her writing workshop students and to be able to observe her teaching young people. When she retired from Dowagiac Schools, we missed her. I hope it comforts her family to know how she impacted so many lives.
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Sue Meloche
May 22nd, 2025 at 1:45pm
I will always remember Judy's smile, she was a fun person all of the time. Rest in heaven, Judy
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reuben miller
May 21st, 2025 at 8:33am
I’m so sorry for your loss. I was just remembering Mrs. O’Brien on Mother’s Day. I was telling my husband’s retired teacher Grandma all about her and what an impact she had on me and my love for reading. I remember exactly how her classroom was set up and how she read to us every afternoon. There was not a book she could not make come to life for me. She will forever have a legacy in each of her students hearts.
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Dawn Lindley-Haney
May 13th, 2025 at 9:26pm
