Judith Nygard
Judith Marie Nygard, 75, of Galesburg, Illionois, arrived in her heavenly home on Tuesday, May 5, 2015, after an abrupt battle with pancreatic cancer.
Her life exhibited strong faith and tender love from Jesus Christ, her Savior and Lord.
Judy entered this world on May 22, 1939 in Roann, Ind. After graduating from Indiana Wesleyan University in Education, Judith Haynes became Mrs. Leigh Nygard on August 3, 1962. They believed that God brought them together and kept them in a faithful union for over 52 years. She was his loyal lover, a wonderful cook, and a fabulous housekeeper.
In their new home in Rockford, Ill., she entered her dual careers of pastor’s wife and public school teacher. The couple then ventured to the state of Wash., where they ministered in churches until 1981. After one sabbatical year in her hometown of Roann, they moved to Galesburg, Ill., in 1982. Judy became a Language Arts teacher, and head of her department, at Lombard Junior High School. After 20 years there as a highly-respected educator, she retired in 2002.
Judy and Leigh traveled to all 50 U. S. states and twelve foreign countries, including Israel, Norway, England, and Russia. Every year they took at least one major vacation and one educational convention. They so enjoyed staying at their farm cottage on the N.D. prairie, listening to the coyotes howl and watching the oil wells pump. Of course, relating to family and friends across the country was a high priority.
Her other hobbies included reading historical and romance novels, playing table games, keeping up with politics, and visiting with friends while volunteering at the Galesburg Rescue Mission. Keeping a fun and faith-filled life with Leigh was a joyous mission “trip” for her.
A highlight of Judy’s life was a total family cruise in celebration of her 50th wedding anniversary with Leigh. Oh how those grandchildren thrilled her heart.
Judy was a person of strong character, high morals, and deep love. Daily she gave quality time to her Lord in Bible study and prayer; she seemed concerned for everyone.
Her beautiful personality, her warm smile, and her joyous countenance, made her attractive to many others. She was a very giving person. She knew how to suffer with grace. We will always cherish her and always miss her.
The Lord blessed this couple with three vibrant sons: Nathan Leigh (Roxanne) of Watford City, N.D.; Mark Franklin (Kim) of Puyallup, Wash.; and James Oscar (Stephanie) of Tampa, Fla. From this generation has come 16 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
All the above survive including her brother, Arthur Haynes, and her sister, Betty Creek. She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Eva Haynes, and her brother, John Haynes.
Visitation was from 5-7 p.m., Thurs., May 7th. The memorial service was at 11 a.m., both at Bethel Baptist Church, 1196 N. Academy Street and Fremont. Memorials may be given to The Salvation Army of Knox County. The family deeply appreciates your love and prayers.