Judith Lynn Beach died January 27, 2024, after a lengthy illness.
The youngest of four sisters, Judy was born December 7, 1959, and grew up in Mount Vernon, Ohio. After graduating from Mount Vernon High School, she received a degree in industrial engineering at General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan. Judy worked for GM, then spent many years with Sylvania as an engineer and trainer in New Hampshire before moving with that company to Versailles, Kentucky, in 1994; she lived there the rest of her life.
Judy’s favorite job was her last one, with Youth For Understanding, a nonprofit that provides international exchange opportunities for high school students. She worked with YFU for 20 years, at first as a placement specialist, then as a student support manager. It was a perfect fit for her. Through YFU, Judy made friends all over the world, visited places like Finland and Hungary, facilitated connections between teens and host families, and solved problems when they arose. She was trusted and loved by everyone. Judy was always on the phone and computer, connecting with people, encouraging them, and loving every part of her job. She had a broad worldview, appreciating other cultures and a vast spectrum of people.
Deeply connected to the community, Judy was highly involved in Versailles Presbyterian Church, where she served in many capacities and was profoundly beloved and respected.
Judy reconnected with her childhood friend, Randy Kirkbride, and they have been together ever since. He moved from Oregon to Versailles in 2016 (Judy flew to Oregon and they made a cross-country drive to Kentucky on his silver Honda Gold Wing). Their life together was saturated with companionship and love. They took motorcycle rides on Saturdays and longer trips to the Tail of the Dragon; they traveled in the U.S., especially to Florida, and had three recent vacations in Europe; they spent time with friends and family. Every single day was filled with love and devotion.
Love is the lens through which Judy saw life and the world. She had more friends than can be counted. She lit up every room she was in with a smile and laughter. When with another person, she always wanted to know all about them—whether she was on the phone with an old friend or speaking with a server at a restaurant. She never met a stranger.
Judy didn’t like talking about her illness, and always had an amazingly optimistic attitude, strength of will, and hope. She kept those qualities her whole life.
She’ll always be remembered for her kindness, generosity, friendship, joy of living, sense of humor, snarkiness, positivity, empathy and compassion, intelligence, and especially her love.
In addition to Randy, Judy is survived by sisters Pam Parker and Paulette Byrd, stepson Jason Kirkbride and granddaughter Emma, and exchange daughter Isabel Zhu, along with one nephew and three nieces.
Donations may be made to: Versailles Presbyterian Church in Versailles, Kentucky, or to the American Cancer Society.
Care Cremation and Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with final care.
Website: https://www.carecremationservice.com/obituaries/Judy-Lynn-Beach?obId=30566538