After a brief illness, Judy Roach Dorris was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on June 25, 2026. Judy was born on August 12, 1951, to the late Jo and Curtis Holt and Lucian Roach.
Being a South Jackson girl, Judy attended J. B. Young Elementary School and graduated from South Side High School in 1969. While at South Side, Judy found her niche as a cheerleader, which she dearly loved. After high school, Judy attended Union University where she was a member of Chi Omega and graduated from there with a degree to pursue her chosen career of teaching. She was a beloved teacher at West High School, South Side Junior High School, and finally South Side High School. While teaching English at South Side, Judy became a cheerleading sponsor and so loved being in that role. After her retirement from teaching, she remained active through her work with such organizations as the Epilepsy Foundation and, most recently, she was a volunteer at Birth Choice. Also, since Judy was an avid reader, she was a member of the long-established Bemis Book Club.
Judy was a humble Christian who faithfully served at First Baptist Church, Bemis, and most recently at Calvary Baptist Church. Her outgoing personality made it easy for her to meet and greet people, which she did with great love and care.
Surviving Judy are her loving and devoted husband of almost forty-nine years, Bruce Dorris; her “pride and joy” daughter Sara Billingsley (Jordan) and her precious grandchildren, Case, Ira, and Virginia. Also, she leaves a very special brother, Mark Roach (Shelley) and their son Tyler. Her extended family includes her mother-in-law, Carol Dorris (the late James Dorris), her brother-in-law, Gary Dorris (Emily), and their daughter, Laurel Moore (James).
SERVICES: Visitation for Judy will be on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 4:00-6:00 pm. The funeral service will be at 6:00 pm with Dr. Todd Brady and Bro. Gary Snuffin officiating. Both will be held at Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 West University Parkway, Jackson, TN 38305.
