
In Loving Memory

Judith Hinther
February 23, 1937 — May 12, 2026
Judith Hinther was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. On May 12, 2026, Judith, affectionately known to many as Judy, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Judy was born on February 23, 1937, in North Cotabato, Philippines, to Rufino and Luisa Olay.
Judy's journey in life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, her faith, and her community. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jacob Hinther (Jack), with whom she shared a love story that began in Great Falls, Montana. The couple married on April 4, 1964, after a whirlwind courtship, bringing together Judith's dream of becoming a nurse and Jacob's service in the Air Force.
Judy pursued her passion for nursing with a degree from a ?? nursing school. Her career was spent caring for patients with kindness and skill at Cook County Hospital for two years and then at Westlake Hospital in Melrose Park, Illinois, where she worked tirelessly for 25 years.
A proud member of the Calvary Baptist Church, Judy's faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her favorite hymns, "He Giveth More Grace" and "He Touched Me," were often heard softly sung by her, a testament to her deep spiritual devotion.
Judy was a woman of many passions, but none more so than her love for the Phoenix Suns. Her favorite color, purple, was a perfect match for her favorite team, and she was an avid fan who knew every player's name and stats. Whether watching in person or on television, she rarely missed a game, sharing this enthusiasm with her family and friends.
Judy was known for her generous and sociable spirit. She had the remarkable ability to make anyone feel like family, often sharing stories of her children, Marylou DeWitt and Dawn Belvis, and her cherished grandchildren: Alexandra Bracher, Trevor DeWitt, Luke DeWitt, Gabriella Belvis, Colton DeWitt, and Hunter Belvis. Her great-grandchildren, Verine and Cypress Bracher, were a special joy in her later years. Judy was a loving sister to Rufino Olay II and Edgar Olay.
Her warmth extended to everyone she met, and she never hesitated to strike up a conversation about her family's accomplishments or her favorite restaurant -- Portillo's. Judy's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Judith was predeceased by her husband, Jack; her parents, Rufino and Luisa Olay; and her sister, Evelyn Gorospe. She leaves behind a family that will forever cherish her memory and strive to honor her legacy of kindness and love.
A service to celebrate Judith's life will be held on May 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Calvary Baptist Church, located at 3810 East University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85205. Family and friends are invited to attend and share in the remembrance of a remarkable woman who touched so many lives.
Judith Hinther's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know her.