East Helena Obituary: Judith Ann “Judy” Harris
Author: Family of Judith Ann “Judy” Harris
Judith Ann “Judy” Harris
Family of Judith Ann “Judy” Harris
Judith Ann “Judy” Harris, age 81, of East Helena
January 13, 1944 – April 5, 2025
Beloved wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Judith “Judy” Harris, passed away on April 5th, 2025, surrounded by her family at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Judy had been going through medical issues since August of 2024, with her daughter by her side. Together, they fought this medical battle, including numerous trips back and forth to the hospital in Missoula. Jody never left her side.
Judy was born on January 13th, 1944, to Albert “Luke” and Eva Screnar in Helena, MT. She was the second of three children. She attended St. Ann’s Catholic School in East Helena, MT. She graduated high school from Cathedral High School in Helena in 1961. She further extended her education at Carroll College.
While working for the Montana Highway Patrol, she met and married Terry Harris in 1964. On May 8th, 1966, they welcomed their first child, Kelly. On September 13th, 1968, their daughter Jody was born. After residing in Great Falls for four years, they returned to Helena in 1972, where they raised their family.
Judy was very active and loved sports. She participated in the local bowling league for many years. In the winter months, she loved to hit the slopes with her family. Judy always looked forward to the holiday family gatherings. Her favorite was hosting Christmas dinner, with a dining room table full of food, to the late-night board games.
Judy and Terry loved to travel. They took several trips all over the world including London where they got to see Big Ben. While in Rome they visited the Sistine Chapel, The Catacombs and threw three coins in the fountain. In Rio de Janeiro they climbed the mountain to see the Christ the Redeemer statue. Other trips included Hawaii, Sicily, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and a Caribbean Cruise. In addition, they also traveled all over the United States.
Judy’s pride was her family. She always made sure everyone had a full belly and was well taken care of. She followed her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids through all of their activities. One of her favorite things to do was taking the children for a stroll through the downtown walking mall usually ending the day at the movies.
In the later years she was very happy to be a member of the “sixtyoneders”. She also enjoyed playing weekly pinochle with her close friends. Throughout her life, Judy was a pillar of strength and compassion, touching the lives of everyone she met. Her generosity, patience, and unwavering support inspired countless individuals, and her memory will continue to be a blessing to all who knew her.
Judy is survived by Terry Harris, daughter Jody Ann Harris, daughter in law Stacy Harris. Grandchildren Brock Harris, Alecia Ann Rusek. Great grandchildren Haven Harris, Mila Morgan, Tinsley Harris. Siblings Jim (Pat) Screnar and Nancy (Mike) O’Dell. Along with many cousins, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her son, Kelly Harris, in 2020. Her parents Luke and Eva Screnar, mother-in-law Margaret “Peg” Harris. Three brothers-in-law; Richard, George, and Phil Harris. Also, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Judy’s love, kindness, and compassion will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Rest in peace, dear Judy.
The family received friends from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Avenue. A funeral Mass was scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, at Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in East Helena. Burial followed at Forestvale Cemetery. A reception followed the burial at the Valley Hub 4960 N. Montana Avenue Helena, Montana.
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