Judy Lemon

In Loving Memory of Judy Elizabeth Sillars Lemon

1949 – 2025

Judy Sillars Lemon, 76, of Galesburg, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, March 20, 1949, the daughter of Troy and Martha (Hoff) Sillars. Judy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, educator, community leader, and true adventurer who lived a bold, joyful, and deeply meaningful life. She was the spark plug of her family — full of love, laughter, and an energy that inspired everyone around her.

Graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School, Judy earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Western Michigan University. She dedicated her life to teaching, working as a substitute teacher, physical education teacher and instructing lifeguarding, swimming, CPR, and first aid classes through the American Red Cross. Her passion for helping others grow was evident in every role she took on. Judy was a beloved school bus driver for Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools for 26 years known for her warmth and ability to brighten the day of every student.

Judy’s commitment to service extended beyond retirement. She served as a City Councilwoman for the City of Galesburg and was an active member of the Galesburg City Planning Commission. She also proudly contributed to Pride of Scott’s, a local project that assembled and sent care packages to deployed service members, making sure they felt appreciated and remembered.

Judy was a passionate traveler who visited all 50 U.S. states and explored Canada, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Iceland. Along the way, she captured hundreds of memories with her camera — always ready to snap photos of breathtaking landscapes, lighthouses, national parks, and, most importantly, her beloved family and friends. She loved preserving life’s beauty and sharing it with those around her.

Judy shared 52 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Joe Lemon. Together, they enjoyed riding bikes and dirt bikes, traveling near and far, and watching stock car races — creating memories full of laughter, adventure, and togetherness.

More than anything, Judy loved being a mother and grandmother. Her daughters and grandsons were the center of her heart, and she poured her love into every hug, every holiday, and every moment. She was their biggest cheerleader, storyteller, and safe place — a true source of unconditional love.

Judy loved cats, sewing, attending music concerts, and dancing at Scott’s Community Center. She also delighted in all holidays, celebrating each one with enthusiasm and heart, creating cherished traditions with family and friends. She enjoyed biking, running, gardening, collecting license plates, and dancing to her favorite music — always embracing life with a free spirit.

Judy is survived by her husband, Joe Lemon; daughters Kitty Lemon Hjelmroth (and husband Lars) and Marty Lemon; grandsons Kian Hjelmroth and Kobie Hjelmroth; and her sisters Sandra and Frank Darnell and Pam and Bert Knooihuizen.

Judy’s legacy is one of love, laughter, service, and adventurous spirit. She touched countless lives, and her presence will be deeply missed. A memorial service will be held at Galesburg Baptist Church on June 6th at 4pm. A celebration of Judy’s life will follow with a music jam at Scott’s Community Center starting at 6pm. The family invites you to honor her memory by living boldly, loving freely, and appreciating the beauty in each new day — just as she did! In keeping with her vibrant spirit, please refrain from wearing black.

While visiting Judy's webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 5975 Lovers Lane in Portage 269 344-5600.