Judy Ann Eklund

Judy Ann Eklund, of Roland, Oklahoma, a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away surrounded by the love of her family.

She was a proud and caring wife and mother to her husband and her two daughters, and a deeply devoted grandmother to her four grandchildren, whom she cared for deeply. After many years of dedicated service at the University of Chicago, she chose to retire so she could spend more time doing what mattered most to her—being present with her grandchildren and family. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved her coffee and enjoyed it throughout the day, never missing a cup. She delighted in shopping, especially hunting for treasures at garage sales, and took just as much joy in hosting her own. She was known for her homemade banana bread and her special banana ice cream, treats that became family favorites and lasting memories.

She also had a deep love for gardening and took great pride in her flowers, nurturing them with the same care and patience she showed to those she loved.

Above all, she will be remembered for her kind heart, her devotion to her family, and the warmth she brought into every room. Her legacy lives on through her daughters, her grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Judy is survived by her husband, Charles Eklund; her children, Jennifer Eklund-Martinez and husband, Keith, and Elizabeth Smolinski; grandchildren, Nina, Nathan, Nadya, and Noah Smolinski; siblings, Lahoma Bigby and Randal Woody; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Vela Woody; and her siblings, Marcedith Martin, Janelle Gordon, Jerry Woody, Kay Stevens, and Jeannie Cowens.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, in the Sequoyah Memorial Chapel at Forever Memories Funeral Services, 463505 Hwy 101, Sallisaw, Oklahoma, from 4-8 pm. Services for Judy will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the same location at 10 am.

In Lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be sent to Alzheimer’s Research Foundation.com