Judith "Judy" Louise Gilfillen

JUDITH LOUISE “JUDY” GILFILLEN, 80, of Sidney, passed away at 10:22 A.M. Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Stillwater Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Covington, Ohio. She was born on March 19, 1945 in Barlow, Ohio, the daughter of the late Louis and Josephine (Petty) Brautigam. On June 18, 1966 she married Lester R. Gilfillen, who preceded her in death on June 30, 1981.

Judy is survived by her two sons, Matthew (Jill) Gilfillen of Troy, and Daniel (Ellen) Gilfillen of Bluffton; grandchildren, William (Ariana) Gilfillen, Abigail Gilfillen, Justin (Stacy) Conner, Ryan (Trinity) Conner, and Morgan Conner; nine great-grandchildren, Tatum, Colton, Lainey, Everest, Irelynn, Roman, Jayce, Elijah, and Hazel; one brother, Bernie Brautigam of Sidney; special friend, Stephen King of Sidney, and his children, Scott King, Emily Herbette, Julie (Nathan) Frazee, and grandchildren, Wesley, Eli, and Vivian. She was preceded in death by sister-in-law, Jane Brautigam.

Judy graduated from Fairlawn High School, Class of 1963, where she was actively involved in music, choir, musicals, and plays. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Education from Ohio Northern University and taught elementary school for five years before retiring to begin her family.

At her parents’ request, Judy later returned to their home to care for them faithfully until their passing in 2009 and 2012.

Judy met Steve at Rosewood Grain, and they shared 28 years together. They enjoyed dining out and attending church, where Judy’s deep faith was central to her life. God was a guiding presence for her, and she found great joy in mentoring others and teaching them about God and Christ.

Judy was grateful for Steve’s love, help, and care, and she was very proud of her sons’ achievements. She cherished watching the family farm and treasured the time she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life Service for Judy on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 3 P.M. at Pemberton Methodist Church, 6541 Main St., Pemberton, OH 45353 with Rev. Don Burley officiating. A meal will follow the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pemberton Methodist Church in Judy’s memory. Condolences may be expressed to the family at (www.cromesfh.com).