Judith Rae (Young) Alfano

On February 17, 2017, Judith Rae Alfano heard the call of the white doves from the House of the Holy and ascended the Stairway to Heaven.

Born in Akron, raised in Mogadore, she spent most of her life in Tallmadge, Ohio. In 1971, her husband was taken from her in an accident. Suddenly, she was single, working full time and raising two children. Understandably scared at first, Judie faced her adversity with strength and determination. She was truly tough as nails. She was always there for them emotionally while also providing all of their comforts and needs.

One day, lady luck paid Judie a visit. She won a free cruise from a radio contest on Magic 105.7. Something about the beauty of the Caribbean really changed her attitude toward life. That trip somehow made her a happier person. She continued "cruising" for many years, sharing her newfound joy with her friends and her two children.

I know it is a cliché, but to know Judie was to love her. Ask any of her numerous friends, and even more, the friends of her children. She touched all of their lives with her wisdom and her naturally loving nature in many different ways. Judie, you were respected, admired, and loved by every one whose life you touched. We will all miss you tremendously, and we can't wait to be with you again.

The celebration of her life will be 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 25, 2017 at the Donovan Funeral Home, 17 Southwest Ave. (on the Historic Tallmadge Circle).