JUDY LEAH IVISON of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Bob and mother of Jenna, passed away on March 2, 2013 at the age of 56 years.

Judy was born on September 12, 1956 in Peace River, to Ivan and Orma Bigford. She spent the first 5 years of her life ""wandering around"" the oilfields in the family trailer as Ivan's job was in oilfield seismic. At the age of 5, Judy's family settled in Pincher Creek where she lived in her first home without wheels. She grew up in Pincher Creek, attending the local schools and later moved to Lethbridge for university, training to be a teacher. Judy and Bob were married on August 11, 1979 and moved to Edmonton. After a brief time in Edmonton, Judy and Bob moved back to Lethbridge where she began her career as a teacher at Lakeview School in 1983.

Besides her husband, Bob, Judy is survived by her daughter, Jenna; her parents, Ivan and Orma; her brother, Barry and wife, Jeanette.

Judy will be lovingly remembered by her family, friends, colleagues and students as someone who cared for them, believed in them and always helped them find the best in themselves. Judy was a caretaker for her family and loved hosting family and school celebrations at her home. She is famous for her taco parties where great food and welcoming hospitality were always features of the day. Going camping in Samowen, Idaho, with her friends was one of Judy's favourite times of the year. She loved to kick back with a good book on the beach, play a game of Canasta or just hang out around the fire in the evening. Judy was an avid quilter and her quilts warm the hearts and homes of her family. Judy's home was the heart of her life and her caring, gentle spirit will be missed especially by Bob, Jenna, and family dog, Daisy. Her life will continue to inspire her family, friends, colleagues and students, to be more compassionate, generous and to think of others before themselves.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations of children books be made to school libraries on Judy's behalf.

A come and go Memorial Reception will be held from 1:00pm- 4:00pm on Friday, March 8, 2013 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL - 610 4th Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.