Judith K. “Judy” Strate, 89, passed away on April 20, 2026. She was born on January 12, 1937, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Robert Paul and Golda Alice Black.
Judy was a proud graduate of Patoka High School, the Valedictorian of the class of 1955, and has remained actively involved in alumni events throughout her life. She continued her education at Vincennes University, earning her degree in Medical Technology. Judy dedicated 42 years of service as a Medical Technologist at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, Indiana, where she was respected for her knowledge, diligence, and commitment to patient care until her retirement in 1999. Following retirement, Judy participated in multiple volunteer activities throughout the community and worked part-time at Natural Blessings Health Food Store.
An avid sports enthusiast, Judy especially enjoyed attending high school and college girls’ basketball games. Her love of the game began early, as she played basketball herself during her time in high school and at Vincennes University. Growing up among a close-knit group of boy cousins, Judy developed a spirited and determined nature, and family stories often recall how well she held her own.
Above all, Judy cherished her family. She rarely missed a sporting event or special program involving her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, taking great pride in their accomplishments and being a constant source of support and encouragement.
Judy is survived by her daughter, Andrea (Mark) Marchino of Newburgh, Indiana; her son, Eric (Angela Bertram) Mason of Mitchell, Indiana; grandchildren, Kaitlyn (James) Helm, Austin Marchino, Cole Mason, and Logan Mason; and great-granddaughter, Caroline Joy Helm. She is also survived by her stepdaughter, Janet (Wayne) Lovell; step-granddaughter, Laura (Neal) Buchanan; and step-great-granddaughter, Lillie Grace Buchanan.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Wayne Strate; her sister, Jean Boyles; her brothers, Bob Black and Jack Black; and her parents, Robert “Paul” and Golda Black.
Judy was a lifetime member of the Vincennes Free Methodist Church and found great joy in her faith community, as well as in the many friendships she cultivated over the years. She participated in many bible studies in her own church and many others. She was well known and deeply appreciated for her warmth, loyalty, and love of gathering with family and friends.
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at 10:30 am EST on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Vincennes Free Methodist Church located at 1423 N. 4th Street, Vincennes, IN 47591. Pastor Irwin Bales will be officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Patoka, IN. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 EST pm on Friday, April 24, 2026, and again from 9:30 am EST until service time on Saturday at the church. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Judy and her family.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vincennes Free Methodist Church.
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