On Sunday, January 3, 2021, Judith S. Luker, loving mother of two children, passed away at age 78. Judy was born on July 19, 1942 in Gadsden, Alabama to Oscar and Mable Stewart. In 1960, she married Vernon Lynch, a real estate broker. They raised two children, Todd and Toni. In her youth, she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior, and raised her children accordingly.
Having studies at a city college, she worked as an assistant teacher at times in the public school system. Judy was a professional optician with Pearle Vision Opticians in Alabama. She received technical training and became office manager under the tutorage of Dr. Stanley Pearle, founder of Pearle Vision.
Later, after marital difficulties, she became a single mom. She enjoyed cooking and reading. She bore a close resemblance to movie star, Debbie Reynolds, and was often queried about the resemblance from acquaintances and the general public. She was also known for her soft voice, gracious attitude, infectious smile, and her kind and compassionate spirit.
About 1994, and her children now married with families of their own, she married Melvin Luker (US Air Force Veteran) in Gadsden, Alabama. They soon moved to Ocala, Florida and later joined the First Baptist Church. Judy was involved with mission activities of her lady’s Sunday school class. Judy also served as a precinct worker in the county voting commission. In 2006, Melvin died unexpectedly.
In 2011, she became engaged to Frank L. Adkins (US Navy Veteran), a 2008 widower, and retired former AT&T Bell Labs engineer. They both lived in the same 55+ community and attended the same church. Over time, due to family health and other long term issues, their marriage was postponed.
Judy was preceded in death by her father, Oscar, her mother, Mable, her brother, Billy, her sisters, Barbara, Kay and Cheri, and her husband Melvin. She is survived by her daughter, Toni, son, Todd, granddaughters, Rae Morton, Grace Kelly Rhea, and great grandson, Emmitt Morton. Also there is her childhood friend, Lucille Young and several cousins, niece Sherry, and other nieces and nephews.
A (non-Casket or Urn) Memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2021, at the Heritage Baptist Church, 642 NE 20th Street, Ocala, FL 34470; at 10:30 AM, with Pastor Dr. Walter B. Smith presiding. Flowers may be sent to the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in c/o Judith S. Luker Memorial, to the Hospice of Marion for “The Cates House” 9505 SW 110th St., Ocala, FL 34481, a hospice facility.