Judith "Judy" Karen Payton, was suddenly promoted to glory on October 16th, 2023. Judy was born Judy K. Vondracek to parents Joseph "Joe" and Catherine (Clark) Vondracek in Minot, North Dakota, on June 23, 1943. She was a Salvation Army Soldier of the Big Rapids and Pasco County Salvation Army Corps. Judy will be lovingly remembered by her husband, David, two children, Kim Ferrante (Tony) and David Payton (Kris), and six grandchildren, Isabella, Joseph, Lucas, Elijah, Noah, and Jadon. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Catherine, brother, Joseph Vondracek, and two grandchildren, Catherine and Kyle, who are now celebrating her life together in the heavenly arms of Jesus. Judy was a very proficient musician and artist. She grew up playing cornet and singing with her brother and parents in the Salvation Army. She dedicated her life to ministering in music through individual performances, leading bands and choirs, teaching young people to play an instrument, sing in songsters, and perform on the tambourine. Her love of education led her to a lifelong profession as a teacher in the Big Rapids Public School system, where she specialized in one-on-one instruction with young children, teaching them how to read. She also taught art and choir for many years. She was an avid photographer who enjoyed capturing memories through the lens of her camera, often creating beautiful slideshows to commemorate weddings, funerals, birthdays, retirement, and other special memorable events. In her retirement, Judy enjoyed spending time creating artistic projects with various types of media. Her latest interest included the creation of beautiful embroidered three-dimensional decorative pieces. She also enjoyed many outings camping with family. The family will welcome visitors on Friday, October 20, from 1:00 5:00 at the Big Rapids Salvation Army. A celebration of life service will take place at the Big Rapids Salvation Army following the visitation. The interment will occur at Oakview Cemetery in Royal Oak, MI, on Saturday, October 21 at 1:00. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Big Rapids Salvation Army, 325 Linden Street, Big Rapids, MI 49307. Arrangements and care entrusted to Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com A Promotion To Glory Celebration Of Life Friday, October 20, 2023 5:00 PM The Salvation Army Big Rapids Corps 325 Linden Street Big Rapids,Michigan 49307 Visitation Friday, October 20, 2023 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM The Salvation Army Big Rapids Corps 325 Linden Street Big Rapids,Michigan 49307