Judy was one of a kind, and at the top of my most favorite people list.

Back in the 1990's, when I lived in Brantford, I used to deal in low cost, quality used toys and children's items. both privately and to several shops and daycare centers around town.

Well, Judy contacted me through an ad I had in the Penny Saver Weekly Paper. I was totally unprepared for when I met her. She was so forthcoming, jovial, outspoken, very opinionated(in a good way!), with a laugh and a smile that could fill and light up the whole room. When she told me her last name I asked her if she was related in any way related to the Mayor of the city, to which she responded, "I am not the mother of the Mayor of Brantford, but rather, the Mayor of Brantford is Judy Friel's son!(lol!)

When I stopped at her Day Care with items, we took the longest time to get down to business, as we would gab about old movies, music, and anything under the sun. I was able to get away with joking about women's rights and other contentious political issues, because she knew exactly where my true heart sat.

But, she always had fire in her eyes, and passion in her soul.

That was 20 years ago, but it seems like yesterday.

I actually grew up in Paris, and served at hundreds of masses at Sacred Heart Church. I wish I could have been there. I moved to Waterloo in 1999(not bad digs!), but, of course, after going to St. John's College, and playing at The Olde School Restaurant(even though the owner is a complete ass!)(lol!), there is still a special place in my heart for Gretzky City located at 42 Varadi.

"I shed a single tear for you, dear Judy, because there are still the echoes of so much laughter that we shared. I never even got to meet your son, and to get his autograph! But, during the last 20 years, I have checked in, periodically, to see how your family, and your son, have been doing. Much love, laughter, and chuckles, but, take it easy on the Guy upstairs!"

JC Smith

Chris,

We extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family at this difficult time. May the happy memories help bring you peace and comfort.

We didn't know your Mom but she sounded like an amazing woman who contributed so much to the youth of our community.

Your are in our thoughts,

Lizanna & Susan

Hallo Art en familie van Judy.

Gecondoleerd met het overlijden van jullie Judy. Wij wensen jullie veel sterkte met dit verlies en hopen dat jullie de kracht vinden om dit een plekje te geven.

Ik schrijf dit ook namens mijn broer en zussen, kinderen van tante Annie

nogmaals veel sterkte.

Jenny

To Judy's family and staff:

I am so sorry for your loss. Judy always talked of the child care teams as her family. I can only imagine the hole that has been left in your homes, work and hearts. May fond memories and her legacy in childcare bring you peace. Thinking of you all. Melodie

Jess: We are very sorry for the loss of your beloved grandmother. We extend our heartfelt condolences to you, your husband and children, and to everyone experiencing this great loss. We love you. xoxox Shelley Gaudet and all of the GFS Members

Dear Chris & Family.................my thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. I have wonderful warm memories of your mom in my heart and they will live on. May the peace of the Lord be with all of you.

Chris,Wendy and Family - I am so sorry to hear of Judith's passing. Please accept my sincere condolences for you loss. Judith was an amazing person, a successful business woman, a kind, loving, caring person with a terrific sense of humour, sincere dedication to her family and a wonderfully feisty nature. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

Our heartfelt condolences to you Chris, Wendy and your entire family at this sad time. My two younger sisters simply loved going to her daycare and there was always a big squeal of delight when the station wagon pulled up. Me...I was too big for daycare at 4/5 lol but enjoyed all the adventure stories. My families thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time.

My deepest condolences go to the entire family. Judy was a wonderful caring woman who was truly an advocate for children and families. She was a mentor for me too, from the early years in my career volunteering at Three Bears after high school in my kilt, She was my first full time employer!. I will miss her laugh , her smile.. and her. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all , including all the staff at both daycare centres. Heaven truly got another angel. Rest in Peace Judy.

Judy, you are the sister I never had and when you left the UK in 1957 with your Mum, Dad and Pete I missed you so much. You will now be missed by all your family most of whom, I am very happy to say, I have met.

God bless you Judy and hope that you have many more kids up there to look after as you have done all your life.

Love you and miss you.

Jim and Janet (UK)

Mama Friel .... you are so loved....you will be so missed.....I will forever cherish all the great memories and laughs through the years.....you were such a big part of my life growing up and I will hold those memories so close forever and always.....Rest Peacefully Beautiful Lady xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxooooooooooooooooooo

Vicki, Jamie, Chris and families....my deepest sympathy.....I hold you all close to my heart during this very difficult time xxxxxxxooooooooo

Love Dianne