Judy Avis
In Loving Memory of Judy Avis
With heavy hearts and endless love, we announce the passing of Judy Dolores McKinney Avis on 11 June 2026. Judy was born in Roanoke, Virginia to Irene and Fred McKinney on 18 June 1947. She was a woman whose strength, warmth, and unforgettable personality touched countless lives. Judy was a mother of five; Johnny, Bill, and Tracey (Josh Jones) Forehand, Alectra and Zeeza Avis. A stepmother to three. Tamara (Jason) Smith, Kim (Heather Sturgill) Avis, and Ricka (Josh) Gilliland. She was a Nana to eleven; Morgan, Bryce, and Devin Forehand, Vivian, Martha, Tucker, and Evelyn Smith, Taylor Noell, Marissa Miller, Amanda (James) Sagoes, and Ashley (Chad) Wheeling. Judy was survived by her sister Loretta (J.D.) Fralin. Judy was preceded in death by her husband Gary Avis, her sister Jeanne Gearhart, and her son Bill Forehand. Judy was the definition of resilience. Strong, independent, and determined, there was never a challenge she wouldn’t face head on. She lived life on her own terms, with courage, grit, and a little bit of that hardheadedness that she would jokingly laugh about.
Her bright spirit could light up any room. She was sassy in the best way, quick with a witty remark, and always ready to make someone to smile. Whether she was teasing those she loved, dancing to any music that was playing, sharing crazy stories, or offering advice, she had a way of making every moment memorable. More than anything, Judy’s heart was open to everyone. She never met a stranger and loved people exact the way they were. If someone needed comfort, help, support or simply a place to belong, she welcomed them with open arms. Her home was a refuge, and her kitchen was often the center of her generosity. She had a special way of showing love through a hot meal, a full plate, and the simple act of making sure no one left hungry. Many children and adults found love, encouragement, and acceptance under her care. Family was never limited by blood in Judy’s eyes. If you needed a mother, Nana, friend, or protector, she stepped into that role without hesitation.
Her legacy is not only found in the family she leaves behind, but also through all the lives she touched. She thought us the value of hard work, compassion, perseverance, and opening our hearts to others. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort in the memories she gave us, the lessons she taught us, and the endless love she poured into our lives every day. Her laughter, strength, sass, and endless capacity to care will remain with us forever. Judy was deeply loved, and she will be profoundly missed. Her spirit lives on in every meal shared, helping hand offered, and every act of love given without condition.
Forever in our hearts. Forever our Judy.
Please join us on June 26th, 2026 at 1:00pm for a celebration of life at New Life Christian Ministries located at 5745 Airport Rd NW, Roanoke, VA, 24012.
