Juliann "Judy" (Smith) Zimmerman

LEWISBURG - Juliann “Judy” (Smith) Zimmerman, 92, of Lewisburg died Friday, October 5, 2018 at Buffalo Valley Lutheran Village, Lewisburg where she had been a resident since September 2017. She was the daughter of the late Earl F. and Lillian M. (Atkins) Smith, both originally of White Deer Township. Although Judy was born in Carlton, New York, she came to West Milton at a very young age to live with her beloved aunt and uncle, Claire and Norman Smith. Claire was Lillian’s sister and Norman was Earl’s brother. Judy graduated from Milton High School, Class of 1944, with honors. She married the late Merlin J. Zimmerman, on September 8, 1946, shortly after his return home from his WWII army service. He was the love of her life. They built a house within two miles of their childhood homes and spent virtually all their married life living there. They celebrated nearly 71 years of marriage together until his death on August 14, 2017. Judy was a life-long, active member of West Milton United Methodist Church, served as a church organist and pianist from the age of 14 until well into her 70s, taught Sunday School, served in leadership positions, and organized events, among other things. She was also active in the community as a volunteer leader and worker. She lived a Christian life rooted in faith, hope and love. Following high school, she lived and worked for a short time at the Evangelical Home in Lewisburg, followed by many years of secretarial work in a law office, then at Bucknell University. After her retirement from Bucknell, she worked several part-time jobs until she was hired full-time by the Milton School District as a teacher’s aide. She finally retired for the last time when she was 80. Judy is survived by one son, Dennis and his wife Debra (Beachem) Zimmerman of Williamsport; one daughter, Ann Zimmerman and her wife Daree Powell, both of Idaho Springs, Colorado; five grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by four brothers and five sisters. She was the last surviving sibling. Judy Zimmerman was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She will be sorely missed. A public viewing will be held from noon – 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 19, 2018 at West Milton United Methodist Church, 310 High Street, West Milton, PA 17886 followed by the funeral at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Christine C. Mastin officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Cemetery, New Columbia. Donations can be made in Judy Zimmerman’s name to the Greater Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org/pa. Arrangements are being handled by Dale Ranck Cremation & Funeral Care, 125 N. Front Street, Milton.