Judith Alden Stilwell, known to many as Judy, was born on June 8, 1950, and passed away on January 1, 2025, at the age of 74. She grew up in Louisville, Kentucky, and spent the last 34 years of her life on her cherished wooded farm in Linden, Tennessee.

Judy is survived by her devoted husband, Gene Stilwell; her children: Jena Herrera (Ramon), Sarah Totherow (Chase), Joetta Hall (Mitch), and Pete Stilwell (Thayla Sullivan); and her grandchildren: Ryan Pitocco, Carley Stilwell, Caden Stilwell, Chloe Hall, Alden Totherow, Xavier Herrera, Elzie Totherow, Vera Totherow, and Samantha Herrera. She is also survived by numerous siblings, beloved friends, and extended family.

Judy was a passionate music therapist, having served both a hospital in Miami and the Highland Youth Center in Hohenwald, Tennessee. An accomplished musician, she played numerous instruments, including the violin and cello. For many years, Judy directed the choir at the United Methodist Church in Hohenwald, as well as the Hohenwald German Choir. She deeply enjoyed homeschooling her daughters and embraced the homesteading lifestyle on their Tennessee farm.

Above all, Judy’s life was defined by her love for her family, her dedication to sharing music as a form of connection and ministry, and her deep appreciation for nature. She found joy and peace in gardening and the outdoors, always radiating a gentle spirit, kindness, and faith. Her unwavering love and generosity touched everyone who knew her, and her legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held in the woods at her home, located at 2324 Stephens Town Rd., Linden, TN, on May 2, 2025, at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to the Friends of LBL in support of the Land Between the Lakes Natural Recreation Area, a place that was very dear to Judy.

McDonald Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Stilwell family.