Judith Beatrice Cauley
Judith “Judy” B. Cauley, a pioneering force in emergency medical services and a devoted nurse, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the age of 81.
Born on March 13, 1945, in Hot Springs, Virginia, Judy lived a life defined by service, leadership, and compassion. She attended Dabney S. Lancaster Community College, where she earned her Associates Degree in Nursing, beginning a remarkable career that would span more than four decades.
Judy dedicated 43 years to nursing with Carilion, beginning her career at Roanoke Memorial Hospital on 10 West. There, she formed a lifelong bond with her head nurse, Sheila Delp, a friendship that remained close throughout her life. Judy’s natural leadership and commitment to excellence quickly set her apart.
A trailblazer in her field, Judy was among the very first paramedics in the Roanoke Valley and played a critical role in shaping emergency medical services in the region. As an instructor, she trained countless EMT’s and paramedics, through her teaching, her impact extended far beyond her own hands – touching countless lives.
Judy also helped break new ground in aeromedical care, becoming one of the first paramedics and nurses to fly on Life Guard 10, serving both Lewis-Gale Hospital and later Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Continuing her legacy of “firsts”, she became Roanoke Valley’s first forensic nurse, further demonstrating her dedication to advancing patient care and advocacy. Judy’s primary passion and love of nursing was spent in the Emergency Room Department where she excelled.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Judy was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great great grandmother. She is survived by her children, Patty Ann (husband Sean), David Lynn (wife Cindy), Edgar Allan, and Shawn Vincent; and by her beloved great grandson, Landon Levi Gutshall, who had lived with her since the age of three and brought immense joy to her life. She also had 5 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren (including Landon), and 1 great great grandchild.
Judy was preceded in in death by her father, Raymond (Hitler) Johnson; mother, June Johnson; and two brothers, Bud Johnson and Eddie Johnson.
Judy was first married to Edgar Gutshall, with whom she shared four children. She later married Dale Thacker on Christmas Eve in 1986, a day that reflected the warmth and love carried into all her relationships.
In her final weeks, Judy was cared for with compassion by Good Samaritan Hospice. The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the comfort and support provided during that time.
Judy had a deep love for animals and a generous spirit that extended to all living beings. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Good Samaritan Hospice or to a local animal rescue organization in her honor.
Judy’s life was one of courage, care, and quiet heroism. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and saved, the students she trained, and the family she cherished.
The family will have a Visitation on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 12:00 – 2:00 pm at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24019, followed by a Celebration of life Service (also at Simpson FH) at 2:00 pm.
