Judith E. “Judy” Doty, 78, of Galena, formerly of Mount Vernon and New Bremen, passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Judy was born on May 19, 1947, in Wheeling, West Virginia, to the late Earl and Wilma (Griffiths) Chapman.
Judy dedicated much of her life to learning and teaching. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and arts from The Ohio State University and went on to teach elementary school students for more than 37 years. She began her career teaching in Newark and Lexington before spending the majority of her years at Danville Elementary School. Her passion for education and her heart for helping others touched countless lives.
Her faith was central to her life. For over 50 years, Judy faithfully served her church community by playing the piano, teaching Sunday school, and serving as a youth director. Through her music, mentorship, and servant’s heart, she made a lasting impact on generations of families.
In retirement, Judy found joy in cheering on the Cincinnati Reds, tending to her roses, attending church, and spoiling her beloved grand dogs, Finney and Ember. Music continued to nourish her spirit, and she often found peace and comfort at the piano. Judy lived with simplicity, compassion, and quiet generosity, embracing life’s small moments as opportunities to show kindness and empathy.
Above all, Judy’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother. Those blessed to know her experienced her unconditional love, forgiveness, and steadfast support. She will be deeply missed by her family and many dear friends.
Judy is survived by her husband, Roger Doty, whom she married on July 5, 1970; daughter, Mia (Robert) Foy of Loveland, OH; son, Jeremy (Alicia) Doty of Galena; grandchildren, Owen Gabel, Olivia Gabel and Ariella Doty; and sister, Margaret “Peggy” Jones of Newark.
In addition to her parents, Judy was preceded in death by her sister, Sara “Sally” Mcglone.
Family and friends may call from 1–3 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Snyder Funeral Home – Flowers Chapel, 619 E. High St., Mount Vernon, where a funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026, with her dear friend Thom Collier officiating. Burial will follow at Newark Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to Messiah Church, P.O. Box 1271, Mount Vernon, OH 43050.
To share a memory or express condolences to the family, please visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
The Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Vernon are honored to serve the family of Judy Doty.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Flowers Chapel
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com