On June 18, 2023, in Knoxville, Tenn., Judith Grissom, age 79, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and dedicated educator went to be with the Lord.
Judy was born on July 8, 1943, in Shelbyville, Tenn. Her passing leaves behind a heartbreak time could never mend. Judy's parents were William and Novella Sorrells and she was an only child.
On June 5, 1971 she married the love of her life, K.D. Grissom. They spent 52 years together building a beautiful life filled with love and joy. Judy found immense happiness in her personal life. She was a loving mother to her three children, Jon Roberts, Tammy McReynolds, and Angie Coffey.
Her role as a grandmother and great grandmother brought her immense joy and she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren: Kimera Ann Grissom, Katelyn McReynolds, Carter Roberts, Christopher and Mackenzie Coffey. Judy was blessed to enjoy two sweet great-grandsons, Brooks and Blaise, who thought the world of her.
Judy's gentle nature and all consuming love enriched the lives of her family and will continue to be remembered. She had a passion for education and graduated from George Peabody College where she earned both a Bachelor's Degree (1965) and Master's Degree (1967) in Elementary Education. She dedicated her 36 year career to shaping, teaching and nurturing the minds of countless children.
Her dedication and love for teaching left an indelible mark on the lives of her students in Nashville, Shelbyville and Knoxville. She will be remembered for touching the hearts of the people at the Church Street soup kitchen and vacation bible school.
In her free time, Judy found solace in nature. She had a green thumb and took great pleasure in tending to her garden where vibrant flowers and lush plants thrived. She enjoyed birdwatching, finding peace and beauty in God's nature. Her love for the outdoors extended to her fondness for walking, and she found serenity in her strolls.
In addition to her many qualities she was a godly woman and a woman of unwavering faith. She had a deep and abiding relationship with Jesus Christ which was evident in her words, actions and interactions with others. Her faith served as a guiding light throughout her life, providing strength, comfort and hope in both joyful and challenging times. Her steadfast belief in God spilled over into her children and grandchildren. She will be remembered for her absolute love for her family, her dedication to education and her gentle spirit.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her grandson, Christopher Coffey. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.
A Memorial Service officiated by Rev. Dr. Jan Wade to celebrate the life of Judith Grissom will be held at Church Street United Methodist Church on July 15, 2023 at 2 p.m. Receiving of friends will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her honor to the Alzheimer's Tennessee charity or to the Church Street Children's Ministries. Online condolences may be expressed at rosefuneraltn.com.
