The following obituary was lovingly written by Judith’s family:
Judith Armstrong Makinson, aged 90, of Florence, AL, passed away peacefully at her home on November 22, surrounded by her loving family. Faithful, devoted, and always available to those she loved, Judith built her life around caring for others and living with grace, warmth, and quiet strength. Judith was born on June 14, 1935 in Fayetteville, TN to Roscoe Odell Armstrong and Lillian Dale Armstrong, the second of three daughters. The family moved to Lawrenceburg, TN in 1946, where her father was a high school teacher. Judith was a graduate of Lawrence County High School, and continued to stay in touch with classmates long after moving away. Judith lived a vibrant and full life—beginning with her early years working in Nashville, TN, and then as an Army wife in Germany, where adventure and resilience shaped her spirit. The family settled in Florence, Alabama in 1966, where she worked at Shoals National Bank ,before leaving to stay home with her 3 children. Throughout every chapter that followed, Judith was surrounded by family and friends who adored her, and she embraced each season of life with gratitude and joy. A lover of flowers, gardening, and the simple beauty of nature, Judith poured her heart into creating a home that reflected peace, comfort, and color. Her garden was her sanctuary, and her home was a place of welcome to all who entered. Judith loved the Lord from a young age. As a child, she found joy in singing in her church choir, and her faith continued to guide her throughout her life. She lived with unwavering belief and shared that love generously with those around her. Judith was preceded in death by her parents, R.O. and Lillian Armstrong, her sister Peggy Marston, and her grandson, Micah Eaton. Judith is survived by her three daughters: Tamara Eaton (William), Lisa Grisham (Kerry), and Meryl Taylor (Roger Layman); and her sister, Bette Foust (Max). She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of 16 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and dear friends, each of whom was deeply loved. Judith’s life was a beautiful testament to devotion, faith, and unconditional love. Her memory will continue to bloom in every life she touched.
