Judith J. Nichols

New York on February 18, 1945. She grew up in Kenmore, New York where she lived with her parents,

Jim and Helen DiStefano, and her younger sister, Lois.

After graduating from Kenmore West Senior High School in 1962, Judi worked as a legal secretary in

downtown Buffalo until marrying the love of her life, Christ Nichols, in 1969...a marriage that would

last 52 years.

Judi and Chris soon started their family...daughters Lori and Kari, and a beautiful baby boy they named

Christy.

The family moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 1977. After settling in to their new home in the desert, Judi

took a position as Registrar at Shea Middle School and enjoyed a variety of hobbies and activities. She

was an above-average bowler, a fabulous cook, and excelled at all types of crafting. She discovered

painting later in life and leaves behind many beautiful works of art. Judi enjoyed a variety of activities,

but her biggest passion was family. Nothing made her happier than spending time with her daughters

and their families (Lori and husband David Lynch and their children, Garrett and Madison) (Kari and

husband Chris Leitner and their children Derek and Chad). She had more friends than we can count.

Not surprising, since she was always there to help anyone in need.

In recent years, Judi and Chris enjoyed traveling the country in their motor coach, and frequently

spent the summers visiting friends and family back home in Buffalo.

One of the joys of Judi's life was meeting her biological family whom she had only recently discovered

through DNA testing. They welcomed her with open, loving arms.

Judi will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, sister and friend to all. She will be greatly missed