Judith Kay Heilala

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Judy Heilala, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, on May 3, 2026, at her home in Friendship Village.

Born on October 14, 1938, in Solon Springs, Wisconsin, the daughter of Gust and Engrid Freid.

Judy graduated as valedictorian from St. Croix High School in Wisconsin. She then enthusiastically pursued higher education, attending Superior State College and later earning both a Bachelor of Science in Management and an MBA from Arizona State University.

In 1958, Judy embarked on a career as an air hostess for American Airlines, a role that would lead to her lifelong passion for travel and exploration. Her journey took a turn when she met and married the love of her life, Gary Alan Heilala, on October 22, 1960, at the Duluth Air Base Chapel. Together, they embraced the unique challenges and joys of being a military family.

Tragically, Judy was predeceased by her devoted husband Gary after only 9 years of marriage, her loving parents Gust and Engrid, and her sister Jan Ferguson. Judy was a devoted mother to her daughter Jill Donley and son John Heilala, and she was a proud grandmother to Campbell, Logan, and Dylan Donley, and great-grandmother to Elliott Varner. 

Professionally, Judy found her calling at Arizona State University. After completing her MBA in 1980, she began her career as the ASU Program Coordinator, eventually ascending to the role of MBA Director for Recruiting, Admissions, and Graduate Programs. Her dedication and leadership left its mark on the university community, where she worked until her retirement in 2011.Judy's contributions extended beyond her professional life. 

She was an active member of the Mesa Arts Center and a long-standing member of the ex-stewardess group, The Kiwi Club. Her commitment to education and women's advancement was evident in her service with the University Career Women Board of Directors, the ASU MBA Council, and the ASU Retirees Association. Judy was also a charter member of the King of Glory Lutheran Church, where she served as an usher and volunteer for many years.

Judy was always an active woman and loved skiing, tennis, golf and playing bridge with friends. Her adventurous spirit carried her across the globe, from Africa to Europe, South America, Asia, and Australia, and she embraced the experiences each destination offered.

A service celebrating Judy's remarkable life will take place on July 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the King of Glory Lutheran Church, located at 2085 Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282. As we gather to honor her memory, we remember a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to her family, friends, and community. She is be interred at Arlington National Cemetery with her late husband Gary.

Judy Heilala will be remembered for her warmth, grace and beautiful smile. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched and in the enduring love of her family. May she rest in peace, reunited with her beloved Gary and family, forever soaring among the stars.