Judith Louise Getchell, age 91, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home on July 22, 2026, following complications during rehabilitation after hip surgery.
Judith was born on December 29, 1934, in Waterville, Maine, to Harold Fuller and Lillian MacDougall. She grew up in Maine, where she met the love of her life, John Edmond Getchell. The two were united in marriage on October 30, 1954, in Waterville and shared 64 wonderful years together, building a life founded on faith, love, and devotion to family until John’s passing.
She is lovingly survived by her sons, David Getchell and John H. Getchell, both of Clearwater, Florida; her daughters, Kim Bettcher and her husband, Jeff, of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and Jennifer Strano of Odessa, Florida; ten cherished grandchildren; and eleven beloved great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, John E. Getchell; her beloved daughter, Linda Mouney; and her sister, Ann Hosea.
Judith enjoyed a successful career as a bank auditor, where she was known for her integrity, diligence, and attention to detail. Outside of her profession, she dedicated much of her life to her church and her community. She faithfully sang soprano in the church choir for many years, had the honor of singing at numerous weddings, and lovingly directed and taught children in the handbell choir, sharing both her faith and her passion for music with generations of young people.
With a heart full of love and generosity, Judith devoted her life to her family. She was always there for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, offering unwavering support, encouragement, and unconditional love. Her greatest joy was caring for those she loved, and her kindness touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Judith possessed a remarkable gift for music. Blessed with a beautiful soprano voice, she sang faithfully in her church choir for many years and was honored to sing at countless weddings, making life’s most treasured celebrations even more meaningful. Her love of music began early in life, when she played the violin, piano, and drums in her school marching band. Whether through her voice, her instruments, or her work teaching children in the handbell choir, she brought joy, comfort, and inspiration to all who listened.
Above all else, Judith will be remembered for her loving spirit, her selfless heart, her steadfast faith, and the beautiful music she shared throughout her life. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the faith she exemplified, and the countless lives she touched with her love, generosity, grace, and compassion.
Judith will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, John, at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, where they will be reunited after a lifetime of love.
Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing that her beautiful example of faith, kindness, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
