Judy Castree

Judy D. Castree, 62, of Rockford passed away peacefully Monday, July 18, 2016, at River View Cottage, the home she loved, surrounded by her family. Born May 21, 1954, in Russellville, AL. Judy was one of nine children born to her parents, Lloyd and Tommie Lou (Mansell) Minnick. She married Tom Castree on November 15, 1973, in Rockford and together they raised three beautiful children, Jeff, Chris and Jackie. As part of a large family, she played the important roles of daughter, sister, cousin, grandmother and of course, doting aunt to her many nieces and nephews. She loved nature and animals, especially cats. She had a passion for gardening and was an active member of the Rockford Garden Club for many years, serving at one point as President. She studied garden design in England and obtained her Master Gardener designation. Judy’s home was a beautiful reflection of her talent and was highlighted in the 2006 Rockford Garden Glory Walk. She was also named Gardener of the Year and was one of the founding board members for Klehm Arboretum. She also established her own garden design business. Her other passion was travel. She loved Europe, most notably England, where she spent time every spring in Cornwall. Professionally, Judy worked for many years as a successful mortgage banker at both Amcore and Alpine Banks. She was well respected by her friends, family and peers for her many accomplishments. Judy’s beauty, sense of style and sophistication were just a few of her many endearing characteristics. But her warm and tender heart, her love for her family and her appreciation for the loveliness in the world are the things for which she will long be remembered. Survivors include her husband, Tom Castree; children, Jeff Castree, Jackie Brady and Chris Castree; grandchildren, Keith and Katie; siblings, Connie, Norma, Bernie, Steve, Dee, Julie, Shawn; mother, Tommie Lou Minnick; numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her father, Lloyd; and brother, Don.

Memorial service at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 26, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park, with visitation from 5 p.m. to service time. In lieu of flowers, donations to the family for memorials to be established at Klehm Arboretum and to the Cancer Center at OSF Saint Anthony.