Judith Branss

Judy Branss passed away on Monday, April 22nd, 2024 at the age of 65 in Chicago, Illinois. Her beautiful legacy is filled with warmth, laughter, and an unshakable amount of love for her family and friends. Born to Joan and Howard Branss, she was a huge animal lover. She had a soft spot for all of the dogs and cats she owned.

She is survived by her sister, Lois Fryndej (Mike Fryndej), her nephew Michael Branss (Melissa Ortega) her nieces Jackie Fryndej-Cruz (German Cruz), Nicole Lybarger, and her great nephews and niece, Anthony Branss, Aiden Branss, Nicholas Meller, Nathan Meller, Natalie Meller, Asher Jackson Fryndej-Cruz, and a host of friends who will carry her memory in their hearts always.

Judy lived her life like an adventure. She embarked on countless journeys from road trips with her parents to taking her nieces and nephews Jackie, Nicole, and Michael to California and Florida. Her love for exploring new places was a big part of her personality. Judy was a ray of sunshine. She showed so much kindness and generosity, especially towards the children in her family.

She enjoyed spending quality time with her grandnephews and grandniece and always went above and beyond to make them smile.

In her professional life, Judy worked at Nothern Trust since 1996. She served very diligently in the income collections department at the bank. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence was fantastic, which earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

Outside of her work life, Judy was a culinary enthusiast who found so much joy in cooking and baking all different types of foods. Her homemade desserts were legendary among family and friends, with her pumpkin pie and cheesecake being particularly cherished.

In the 70's, she loved seeing performances by her favorite band known as M & R Rush. Judy's love for her hometown of Chicago was unwavering. She loved the vibrant neighborhoods and had many cherished memories of her youth, including hanging out on Drake Street.

She was known for her directness and honesty. She was a huge defender of her beliefs and never hesitated to speak her mind, earning her the admiration of all who knew her.

In her free time, Judy enjoyed simple pleasures like visiting the zoo to see the koala bears, eating at the local Chinese food restaurant, and savoring a cold Pepsi. She had a particular fondness for the colors green and blue, which reflected her incredibly vibrant personality.

Judy's passing leaves a void in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her strength, kindness, and the love she shared with everyone she met. Her light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts forever.

A celebration of Judy's life will be held on Sunday, May 5th from 1-5pm at City Vibes Event Space 7441 W Irving Park Road Chicago, IL 60634 where friends and family will come together to honor her legacy and share cherished memories.