Judith “Judy” Ann Armor Ryals, born on June 21, 1944, in Ruston, Louisiana, passed peacefully to the arms of her Savior on January 30, 2025, in Franklin, Tennessee. Her final days of life were spent surrounded by her family up until her last breath. She was the beloved daughter of James Vance “JV” and Dorothy Armor.

Over the course of Judy’s life, she impacted many people by her display of the fruits of the Spirit. The people she knew viewed her as a gentle and kind person, but those who were closest to her knew that there was more to her. Judy was someone who would do anything to make sure everyone was taken care of and never put herself over others. Her profound love for family was one of her biggest priorities and joys in life. However, the most important highlight of her life was her walk with Christ which was evident to everyone she encountered.

On August 21, 1965, Judy was married to the love of her life, Terry Douglas Ryals, in Farmerville, Louisiana. God blessed them with their first and only child, Lori Ryals Broach, on June 2, 1967. Judy put her home economics degree from Louisiana Tech into practice by creating numerous wonderful creations in the kitchen such as shrimp gumbo, fried catfish, and the family favorite carrot cake. There are many fond memories of crawfish boils with friends and family at their home. Spending time with her granddaughters who were extremely dear to her was a very important part of her life. Many hours were spent playing games, reading books, teaching math, FaceTime calling, looking through old photos, and vacationing in Florida.

After graduating the second time from Louisiana Tech with a master’s in mathematics, Judy’s corporate life was spent teaching college level math. Caring about the success of her students, she was passionate about teaching math in a way that was unforgettable. Her God-given ability to teach others shed light into the lives of many as she received much love from all her students.

As she was born into a musical family, Judy dedicated large portions of her time to singing in the choir as well as performing multiple solos. Praising her Savior through song brought her great joy. She was given the opportunity to travel with the choir of First Baptist Church of Bossier City to Europe in addition to releasing an album with the choir. Not only was she on the praise team at her church but she also taught children’s choir devotedly. Humming at all times, she always had a song in her heart that brought glory to God.

Judy is survived by her daughter, Lori Ryals Broach and son-in-law, Murry L. Broach, Jr. from Murfreesboro, TN.; granddaughters, Mallory Nicole Broach from Franklin, TN and Madelyn Elizabeth Broach from Murfreesboro, TN.; brother and sister-in-law, Stan and Rhonda Armor from Houston, TX.; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Gathy and Gordon Reed from Lafayette, LA.; three nephews, Peyton Armor from Haslet, TX,  Patrick and Taylor Reed from Lafayette, LA.; one niece, Ashley Reed from Lafayette, LA.; extended family; and many dear friends.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband and best friend for almost 60 years, Terry Douglas Ryals; parents, JV and Dorothy Armor; father-in-law, Edwin Ryals; mother-in-law, Roby Elizabeth Ryals; and sister-in-law, Donna Armor.

Although her presence will no longer be with us physically, her life will be an inspiration to many generations ahead of her. The memories she created with others continue to live on in the hearts and minds of her family. Her humility, selflessness, gentleness, and kindness were some of her most prominent attributes of life that are cherished and remembered by many. It is of great joy to her family and friends that she is no longer suffering and is completely healed from her earthly complications. She truly led the life of a good and faithful servant.

The celebration of Judy’s life will be at 10:00 A.M. on February 8, 2025 at Kilpatrick Funeral Home in West Monroe, LA. Visitation will be at 9:00 A.M. until the time of service. Phillip Thigpen will officiate the service. There will be a graveside service following the funeral service at Pisgah Cemetery in Bernice, LA. under the care and direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes, West Monroe.

Serving as pallbearers will be Peyton Armor, Ronnie Green, David Green, Tommy Goleman, Tommy Barr, Greg Farrar, and Ken Fletcher.

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