Judy Kay Shimonek, 74, of Lincoln, Nebraska, passed away peacefully at home on January 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born on May 5, 1950, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Judy spent her entire life in the community she loved. She married John Shimonek, her devoted husband of 47 years.
Judy dedicated 37 years to teaching second grade at Malcolm Public Schools. She had a deep passion for education and took immense joy in nurturing young minds. Her students held a special place in her heart, and she was remembered fondly by many for her kindness and dedication.
Outside of teaching, Judy found happiness in the simple joys of life. She was an avid reader who could often be found with a book in hand. She loved to travel and explore new places but also treasured quiet moments at home watching Hallmark movies or spending time with her beloved cats. Above all else, she adored her family and especially cherished time spent with her three granddaughters—Olivia, Raina, and Pippa—who brought endless joy to her life.
Judy is survived by her loving husband John; daughters Jessi and Jenna; granddaughters Olivia, Raina, and Pippa; her mother Barb; and four siblings.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 23rd at 6:00 p.m. at Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Judy’s warmth and love touched the lives of so many. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
She was such a wonderful teacher, I’m so sorry for your loss. The family is in our prayers!
Condolences and prayers for the family as you learn to live without Judy. She was a sweetheart when I knew her in high school and that did not change according to the obituary.
Judy will be missed at our high school monthly lunches. She was always making us laugh by retelling stories of her most recent travel adventure. She was loved.
I knew Judy from when we were tots at Randolph Elementary School and remained friends all these decades. In our later years we found ourselves on opposite sides of the political aisle. I always enjoyed our “banter” and through it all we respected each other and remained friends.
TRULY…A WONDERFUL LADY!!