SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – Judith Nancy Torney, 89, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026. Born on March 17, 1937, in Elkader, Iowa, she was the daughter of Carl and Sophia Reineke. Throughout her life, Judy was known for her kindness, quiet strength, and deep love for her family.
Judy graduated from Decorah High School in 1955, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in business education from Luther College in 1959. She worked for Honeywell in Minneapolis, Minn., before marrying James Torney on Oct. 5, 1963, in Decorah, Iowa. Together, they shared more than 60 years of marriage, and, in 1970, moved to Springfield, Vt., where they raised their children, Peter and Susan. Judy later worked for the Springfield School District from 1975 until her retirement in 1999.
Family was always at the center of Judy’s life. She enjoyed cooking and was happiest when everyone was gathered around the table. She had a lifelong love of classical music and was a devoted Boston Red Sox fan; if a game was on, she could often be found listening on the radio. She enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, like a walk or a crossword puzzle with Jim, and especially treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren.
Judy is survived by her daughter, Susan (Dave) Hillis; her son, Peter (Carrie) Torney; her granddaughter, Monica (Kyle) Lizotte; her grandson, Matthew (Shawna) Baird-Torney; and her four great-grandchildren, Easton Baird-Torney, Hazel Baird-Torney, Avery Lizotte, and Harrison Lizotte. She is also survived by her niece, Lynda (Richard) White, and her nephew, Richard Shepherd.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Sophia Reineke; her beloved husband, Jim, in 2025; and her sisters, Bernice Reineke and Maxine Shepherd.
Judy will be remembered for her kind heart, her quiet strength, and her unwavering love for her family. She found joy in life’s everyday moments, and had a special way of making people feel welcome and cared for. Her love, wisdom, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.