Judy Lynn Williams Hale

Judy Lynn Williams Hale, 74, of Newbern, Tennessee died on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at her residence in Newbern, Tennessee.

Born Friday, February 23, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Roy Williams and the late Hedrick McGee Williams. 

Judy worked for many years as a professional groomer with the Animal Care Hospital, where she was known not only for her skill and gentle touch but also for her deep dedication to the well-being of every animal she cared for. Her greatest passion was for rescue dogs — she believed every animal deserves love and a second chance, and she did all she could to give them just that.

Judy's love for her country was equally strong. Proudly patriotic, she was affectionately known as "General" by her family and friends — a nickname that spoke to her spirited personality, leadership, and the deep respect she commanded with both humor and heart.

In her quieter moments, Judy enjoyed the simple pleasure of a good cup of coffee, often shared in the company of her dogs or with a friend. Her warmth, loyalty, and light-hearted spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She leaves behind a circle of family, friends, and beloved pets who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude.

Cremation services for Mrs. Hale are under the direction of Johnson-Williams Funeral Home.

She is survived by one son, James David Hale (Ashley) of Dyersburg, Tennessee; two stepsons, James Hale (Rachel) of Rockford, Illinois and David Hale of Joliet, Illinois; two sisters, Brenda Ochoa of Joliet, Illinois and Linda Johnson of San Bernardino, California and she was "Grandma" to grandchildren, Luke, Liam, Lakisha, Brittany, Jimmy, Maverick, and Austin.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Anthony Hale; two brothers, Leroy Williams and Billy Williams and two sisters, Barbara Marra and Lois Sestak.

Online condolences may be made to the family at johnsonwilliamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Judy Lynn Williams Hale.

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