November 28, 1943 – January 28, 2025
Judy Kay Gerard, a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, cherished sister, and treasured friend, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025, in San Jose, California, at the age of 81.
Born in Spencer, Iowa, on November 28, 1943, daughter of James and Jenny (James) Olson, her early childhood was spent on a farm southeast of Milford. Judy was known from a young age for her warmth, curiosity, and deep caring for others. She started attending Milford Community School in 1949, graduating with the class of 1962, with whom she kept in touch and helped reunite through helping to organize many class reunions. Judy attended the University of Iowa, where she earned her degree in Business and Accounting in 1967. It was there she met her future husband, Evan Gerard.
After graduating, Judy moved to California and was employed by GRT, General Recording Technology. Evan was employed in Germany, and when Judy joined Evan there, they were married……twice on November 23, 1970.
Later that same year, Judy and Evan moved to California to begin their life together. They were then blessed with two sons, Jamie and Jason. Evan’s employment called the family back to West Berlin, Germany. Judy would often share about living in West Germany before The Wall was taken down. Whether for Evan’s work or simply for the joy of travel, the two shared a life rich in experience, culture and an adventurous nature they passed on to their sons and granddaughter.
In their Campbell, California, home, Judy was active with the boys’ activities in school and sports and was an avid “soccer mom.” She was employed with the local school system as a Language Testing Technician for a number of years. Every summer, Judy would hear her Iowa Roots calling her home. She and Evan would spend time in Iowa, visiting family and friends, working on the family genealogy, and making wonderful memories.
Judy was a woman of many talents and deep passions. Her hobbies included scrapbooking, oil painting, gardening, cooking, reading, genealogy, and cheering on her favorite sports teams. She was definitely an Iowa Hawkeye Fan and loved Bing candy bars. She had a unique gift for turning everyday moments into meaningful memories. Her creativity and warmth left a lasting mark on everyone around her.
Above all, Judy will be remembered for her genuine kindness, her empathy, and her unwavering love for her family. She inspired those around her to live fully, to love deeply, and to lead with compassion.
Left to remember her with love are her beloved husband, Evan Gerard; their sons, Jamie (Adrianna) Gerard and Jason (Maria) Gerard; her granddaughter, Freia Gerard; and her siblings, Jean Roberts, Leann Groth-Olson, Mick (Dorthy Ann) Olson, and nephews. Her memory will live on in their hearts and in the countless lives she touched with her grace and generosity.
She lived a beautiful life, full of love, light, and laughter, and will be deeply missed.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life to honor Judy Olson Gerard to be held Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Faith Community Church Memorial Room from 2-4 pm with a program scheduled at 2: 30 pm. Judy passed away on January 28, 2025, in San Jose, California.