PIERRE, SD – Judy Row, 86, of Pierre, passed away November 11, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.
Memorial Celebration of Life: 10:30am, Monday, November 24, 2025 at Capitol Heights Baptist Church
Inurnment: Riverside Cemetery
Judith Elaine “Judy” Row, passed away on the 11th of November, 2025 in Pierre, South Dakota. Born in Bourbon County, Kansas on March 19, 1939, to Charles and Beulah Sterling, Judy was the much-cherished second child in a bustling family that welcomed her with hearts full of hope.
Growing up in Kansas, Judy’s life was marked by a series of proud moments, none more so than the spiritual day she shared with her brother Stanley, when both were baptized and affirmed their faith in a church in Leanna, Kansas.
In 1976, Judy, a hardworking and determined mother, ventured to South Dakota with her four loving children in tow. Her career at the Maryhouse Nursing Home began that same year, and for fifteen dedicated years, Judy’s nurturing spirit and comforting presence were a blessing to all in her care. In 1991, Judy transferred to the laundry department at St. Mary’s Hospital. Her years there until her retirement in 2004 were characterized by the same steadfast work ethic and kindness. Yet, Judy was not one to settle into retirement easily. Instead, she joined the team at Governor’s Inn, assisting guests part-time from 2004 until 2009, when she finally retired once more.
Judy is survived by her children, Lisa Row and Mike (Gen) Row, both of Pierre, thirteen grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride. Judy is also survived by her brother Tony (Robin) and sister-in-law Joan Sterling, as well as numerous loving nieces, nephews, and a circle of friends and extended family members. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, beloved grandparents Charles and Dolly Williams, son Steve, daughter Tammy, and siblings Stanley, Paul, and Chuck, sisters-in-law Joyce Sterling and Carolyn Sterling, nephew John Charles Sterling, and great nephew Clinton Andrew Layne II.
