February 23, 1947 – April 14, 2026
With deep sadness, the family of Judy Ruby Diana Ramsbottom (née Cherniski) announce her passing on April 14, 2026, at the age of 79, with her sister Marion at her side.
Judy was born February 23, 1947, in Mobert, Ontario. She spent her early years in Loon Lake before moving to Thunder Bay in 1964. She later lived in Toronto, returning to Thunder Bay before moving with her family to Ignace and eventually settling in Dryden, Ontario, where she spent her later years.
Judy worked in a variety of roles in Thunder Bay, including as a chambermaid and bartender at various hotels, and later as a sales associate at SAAN. She always had a cheerful smile while serving others. While living in Toronto, she worked for Blackhall & Company Limited.
Judy was proud of her sobriety, having stopped drinking in 1978 and remaining sober for over four decades, and of having quit smoking for many years—strengths her family admired.
Judy had a deep love of music; one she passed on through generations. At her family home, she could often be found singing while doing dishes, and later in her own home, her daughter and grandchildren remember spontaneous dance parties. Many songs will forever bring a smile as we think of her. She also loved playing bingo and darts and looked forward to going down for coffee at 10 Vic with her friends.
As the second oldest of nine siblings, Judy took on a significant role in helping to raise the younger children, providing care and guidance that left a lasting impact, for which her family is forever grateful.
Judy loved her daughter Amanda, her partner Murray, and her grandchildren, Rondall, Yasmin, and Dakota, “to the moon and back,” a phrase she often shared with them, her siblings, and her many nieces and nephews. Family meant the world to her.
Special thanks to her grandson Dakota, whose care and support over the past few years meant so much to her. Whether visiting her at home or in the hospital or helping with groceries, his care and presence brought her great comfort.
Judy was strong in her faith and found comfort in her belief in Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life. She valued her personal relationship with the Lord, and her family finds peace knowing she is now reunited with those who have gone before her.
She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Amanda Laviolette (Murray Pyne); her grandchildren Rondall Rae, Yasmin and Dakota Vandale; her siblings Randy Girardin, Cindy D’Orazio (Sam), Marion Zuback (Greg), and Donald Girardin. She is also survived by her aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. She will be deeply missed by her close friends Kandiss, Sara, Susanna, and all her friends at 10 Vic.
Judy was predeceased by her parents, Frances and George Girardin; her brothers Billy and Nick Cherniski, Ricky and Michael Girardin; her great-niece Kayliegh Ivall; great-nephews Nicky Girardin and Nicholas (Nicky Ray) Holmquist; and her grandparents.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the physicians, nurses, and staff of the palliative care unit at Dryden Regional Health Centre for their compassion and care, and to the friends who visited and supported Judy during her time in hospital.
We are especially grateful to Pastor Jake Letkeman of Emmanuel Baptist Church for the care, compassion, and guidance he provided to Judy over the years. His visits, prayers, and support brought her comfort and reassurance, and his presence during her final days—sharing laughter, helping her choose songs and scripture, and reminding her of the promise of eternal life—meant so much to Judy and her family.
Thank you for the memories, laughter, and love. You are at peace in the presence of the Lord.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 9, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Emmanuel Baptist Church with Pastor Jake Letkeman officiating. Interment will follow in the Dryden Cemetery.
Please join us via livestream at www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdryden.com
Donations in Judy’s memory may be made to the Dryden Native Friendship Centre, 74 Queen Street, Dryden, ON P8N 1A4 or through Aurora Funeral Services.
Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/obituaries/judy-ramsbottom
Arrangements entrusted to Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2
