Judith Ellen Walker passed away peacefully on Monday, Oct. 17, 2016, after a long battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease.) Judy was born on June 30, 1959, in Hayden, Idaho, to Eva and Melvin Walker.

She graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1977. While in high school, Judy enjoyed music, swimming and church activities. She was particularly thrilled to serve as The Honored Queen for Jobs Daughters in Coeur d’Alene during her senior year.

After high school, she went on to attend college at the University of Idaho and then the University of Alaska Anchorage where she pursued her interest in laboratory sciences.

Judy had a profound love and faith in her Savior. She found joy in spending time with her family and keeping an eye on her nephews and nieces. A true animal lover, Judy was rarely without a cat to keep her company. She loved to cook and would read cook books for pleasure.

In 2015, she was diagnosed with ALS. She faced this last challenge with incredible courage and grace.

Judy is survived by her parents, Melvin and Eva Walker; her six siblings, Steven Walker (wife Betty), Marilyn Willard (husband Bill), Tom Walker (wife Terri), Wesley Walker (wife Stacy), Kelly Walker (wife Teresa) and Bill Walker (wife Eileen); her aunt, Ada Grace Chandler (husband Clifford) and her uncle, Orval Walker; as well as her 16 nephews and nieces.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 24, 2016, at Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel and Gathering Center, 373 E. Hayden.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the ALS Association (alsa.org). Judy’s family gives thanks to her wonderful caretakers at The Life Care Center of Post Falls for their dedication and constant consideration.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Judy’s online memorial at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com and sign her guest book.