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Judith Ann (Kearney) Christensen, 68, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.
Visitation will be held Sunday, Aug. 16, from 1-2:30 p.m. at Sliefert Funeral Home in Sioux Rapids. Memorial services take place at 2:30 p.m. following the visitation at the funeral home. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held from 3:30-6 p.m. following the service at Gabrielson Park, 1311 440th St., Sioux Rapids. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Judy Christensen may be made to help the family celebrate her life and legacy. Memorial contributions may be made through Security State Bank in Sutherland, under Whitney Christensen Judy Christensen Memorial Fund.
Born on April 17, 1958, in Buffalo, N.Y., Judy was the daughter of John D. Kearney and Patricia Kearney.
From her earliest years growing up in western New York, Judy was recognized for her caring heart, lively spirit and the grace and kindness she extended to everyone around her.
She graduated from Pembroke High School, in Corfu, N.Y., and went on to build a rewarding career in nursing and the helping fields, where her hard work, kind nature and integrity earned her the respect and affection of all who worked alongside her.
Above all else, Judy devoted her life to her loved ones. As a devoted mother and grandmother, Judy’s greatest joy was supporting her family in all their endeavors and creating traditions that will be cherished for generations to come.
In her free time, Judy enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She loved attending the events of her grandchildren and cheering them on. Her bright smile, gentle guidance and unconditional love touched the lives of everyone blessed to know her.
Judy was proud to be a friend of Bill W., a fellowship that became an important part of her life’s journey. Through recovery, she found strength, purpose and a community of cherished friends who walked alongside her with understanding and support. She was known for her compassionate heart, listening ear and willingness to encourage others facing their own challenges. She freely shared her experience, strength and hope, touching many lives along the way. The friendships she built and the lives she influenced through her commitment to helping others remain a lasting part of her legacy.
Judy is survived by her children: Kelly (Luke) Drefke, Ashley (Travis Miller) Christensen, Whitney (Greg Johnson) Christensen and Dane (Crystal) Christensen; her grandchildren: Cale, GraceLyn, Abel and Case Christensen; her siblings: Daniel (Laurie) Kearney, Donald (Becky) Kearney, Cindy (Scott) Turner, Rich Klein, Kevin (Ellie) Kearney; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Patricia Kearney and John D. Kearney; sister AnnaMarie McManus; and sister-in-law Cheryl Klein.
