Judith Kay Kress

Judith “Judy” Kay Kress, was born on June 1, 1941, in Cortez, Colorado. She peacefully passed away in her sleep on December 2, 2025, at Grace Assisted Living Center in Chubbuck, Idaho, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering support for her family and community.

Judy graduated from American Falls High School in 1959, and soon after, she married her high school sweetheart, Ron Kress, in June of that same year. Together, they built a life filled with love and commitment, particularly during Ron’s esteemed 30+ year career as a basketball coach, where Judy proudly stood as his dedicated coach’s wife. They raised a family together and embraced life in the Shelly/Firth area, later moving to Chubbuck and then Pocatello before settling permanently on their farm in Rockland in 1992.

Judy delighted in helping others. She enjoyed working at Bannock Regional Medical Center and later the Pocatello School District. She especially loved her work with special needs and early learning students until she retired in June 2006. Embracing the next stage in life, she continued to serve working in the LDS Temple and keeping busy with genealogy and family history research. She dedicated herself to caring for her friends throughout her lifetime, especially those in her church congregations and communities.

Judy was a woman who treasured family gatherings, often celebrating birthdays and holidays with grand festivities. She was known for hosting family reunions and bringing together her loved ones for cherished moments. Judy absolutely adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often giving them big hugs that would warm their hearts. Judy loved a home filled with family and friends.

Judy leaves behind her beloved family: her daughters Kathy (Brent) Walker of American Falls, Debbie (Kelly) Wright of Chubbuck, and Rhonda (Blair) Walker of Buhl, as well as her son Cordell (Jamie) Kress of Rockland. She is also survived by her sisters Betty Ray, Marilyn, and Karen. Judy was a proud grandmother to 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, continually cherishing her role as their matriarch.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Alfreda Harlow, sister Gwenna, her first husband Coach Ron Kress, and her second husband Dr. Dell Rudd, and granddaughter Bailey Wright. Her warmth, spirit, and kindness will be deeply missed, as she leaves an indelible mark on all who knew her.

A viewing will be held on December 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - AF Chapel located at 650 Pocatello Ave, American Falls, ID 83211.

Family and friends are invited to visit DavisRoseMortuary.com to order flowers, or to share condolences, memories, and photos.