Longtime Galesburg Resident Judith 'Judy' Scott Smith Dies at 90

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Judith "Judy" Scott Smith, a longtime resident of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away on February 19, 2026 at the age of 90. Smith was known for her intelligence, warmth, and steady devotion to her family and community, having worked as a legal proofreader, Girl Scout leader, and payroll clerk at Cottage Hospital. In retirement, she remained active in the community, volunteering with the Friends of the Library and Cottage Corner.

Why it matters

Judy Smith's life exemplified the values of community service, faith, and family that have long been important in the Galesburg area. Her passing marks the end of an era for a woman who dedicated decades to making a positive impact on those around her.

The details

Judith "Judy" Scott Smith was born in Peoria, Illinois in 1935 and later moved to Galesburg, where she met and married her husband James in 1954. Over the course of their 71-year marriage, the couple raised three children and were deeply involved in the Galesburg community. In addition to her work as a legal proofreader and hospital payroll clerk, Judy was an active Girl Scout leader and volunteered extensively with the Friends of the Library and Cottage Corner in her retirement.

• Judy Scott Smith was born on July 10, 1935 in Peoria, Illinois.
• She graduated from Mid-County High School in Lacon, Illinois in 1953.
• Judy married James E. Smith on December 31, 1954 at the Lacon Methodist Church.
• Judy worked as a payroll clerk at Cottage Hospital for 15 years.
• Judy passed away on February 19, 2026 at the age of 90.