Judith "Judy" Kathryn Gifford-Lane, 86, a longtime resident of Coconut Creek, Florida, peacefully passed away on Monday, November 27, 2023. Her passing came shortly after she happily celebrated an early 87th birthday and a heartwarming Thanksgiving surrounded by the love and warmth of her children and grandchildren. True to her wishes, Judy peacefully transitioned from this life surrounded by love within the comfort of her cherished home.

Judy was born in Chicago, Illinois, on November 29, 1936, to John M. and Kathryn J. Gifford. She graduated from Waller High School in Chicago, IL and went on to study Elementary Education at Chicago Teachers College in Chicago, IL. Although Judy never completely earned her teaching degree, she did dedicate her life to education.

Judy worked for Broward County Schools in various administrative roles, most recently in North Area Psychological Services, and retired after 38 years. After retirement, she continued to volunteer at local elementary schools, teaching children to read and advocating for any extra services they would need. When her grandchildren were born, she was a vocal advocate for their education, volunteering in their classrooms and chaperoning field trips.

Judy was a woman of remarkable independence and resilience. She had three beautiful children with her former husband, Clarence "Jim" Lane. She raised Christopher, Cynthia, and Steven as a single mother on a school secretary's salary and managed to never make us feel that we were going without. It's been said she took the "slow and steady wins the race" attitude and was able to create an amazing life for herself and her family. She was able to accomplish everything she wanted. She traveled often to visit her grandchildren, took transatlantic cruises, shopped till she dropped (she loved clothing and jewelry), and decorated her home multiple times—she loved to design. She was a true inspiration to her children and grandchildren, showing them that you can accomplish anything when you work hard and persevere. Judy's children and grandchildren were the loves of her life. When you were ever speaking with her, you could hear the pride she had for all of them in her voice.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, John M. Gifford and Kathryn J. (DiGiovanni) Gifford.

Judy is survived by her children, Christopher J. Lane and his wife Rumiko Lane; Cynthia J. DeFrancisco and her husband C. Rich DeFrancisco; Steven C. Lane and his wife Denise Lane; and four beloved grandchildren, Taylor E. Leonard, Kathryn M. Leonard, Cameron DeFrancisco and Elizabeth Lane.

Judy is also survived by her brother Alymer Mead Gifford, her sisters Jeanette Troesken, and Alyce Taxe and her husband Stephen Taxe.

Judy was a beautiful woman, inside and out. Her smile was so beautiful, it would light up the whole room. She cared deeply for her family and the people around her. She was so kind and passionate (sometimes mistaken for aggression). She made an impact on many lives. She will be forever missed. Until we meet again.

A Graveside Service will be held 10:00 A.M., Saturday, December 9, 2023 at the Linville Cemetery at Edina, MO.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home of Edina, MO.