Judith Bryant
Judith Ann (Gobel) Bryant
May 12, 1934-August 2, 2019
Judith “Judy” Ann Bryant, 85, of Columbus, OH, died on August 2nd after a brief illness. Judy was born May 12, 1934 to Will C. and Gertrude Gobel and grew up in Milwaukee Wisconsin. She graduated from Stephens College in Columbia, MO, where she met Dudley Bryant. They were married in 1954.
Judy was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother as well as an active and energetic member of her community. She gave generously and she gave her best in both her professional and volunteer activities. Judy served the YMCA for many years, first in the Chicago area, beginning as a volunteer, and rising through the organization to become Branch Director at the Hilltop YMCA and then Executive Director at North YMCA in Columbus. She especially loved working with children and youth and remained an enthusiastic swim teacher her whole career. She is remembered as a mentor and friend to many of her colleagues.
Judith also served with the Dublin-Worthington Rotary Club and was the first woman to serve as President in 2002-2003. She received a special commendation in 2018 for her 29 years of service and leadership. She especially treasured her work with the International Service Committee and building cross cultural friendships.
In addition to her serious endeavors and accomplishments, Judy will be remembered most fondly for her playful and silly side and her love of creative celebrations, as well as for the large family gatherings that she hosted with zest and organizational aplomb.
She is survived her husband, Dudley, son Bob Kent-Bryant and wife Jenny, daughter Leslie Levine and husband Bob Levine (deceased) and daughter Laura Bryant and husband John Hutton, brother Charlie Gobel and wife Maria, brother Bob Gobel, grandchildren Melissa, Jonathan, Katie, Jennie, Joseph, Sean, Jordan, Haleigh, and Benjamin and five great-grandchildren.
Memorial gifts may be made to Dublin-Worthington Rotary Club Foundation-Dominican Republic Youth Scholarships (Rotary Club of Dublin-Worthington, P.O. Box 181, Worthington, OH 43085) or to North YMCA (1640 Sandalwood Pl, Columbus, OH 43229).
A service in celebration of Judy’s life will take place at 1pm on October 19th in the Chapel at Forest Home Cemetery, 2405 W Forest Home Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, with burial immediately following. The family will host a reception afterwards for family and friends.
Judy was one of the most important people in my life. She was a great boss, mentor, and personal friend. The North YMCA (Columbus) always had a family atmosphere when Judy was the Executive. Her passion for people and care for her fellow human being shined through every day. Struggling families, joyous children, motivating volunteers was never a chore with Judy around. We laughed and cried together while serving the community. She helped me fall in love with YMCA work and helped me be a better father and friend. I share her wisdom with others every day.
Take care Dudley and family. You are all in my prayers.
Chris Angellatta
Chief Operating Officer
YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne.
Met Judy first time 30 years ago when my eldest daughter and I were introduced to the Indian Princess program with North-Y. All three of my kids enjoyed time at the Y and continued with Y-Indian Guides & Princess and later with Y-Trails with Judy’s guidance, thru-out their middle school and even high school. Judy had a Kind and Caring spirit. a Truly great person. The very best memories that my kids have is time spent at y-camps. This would not have been the case without Judy’s encouragement to participate. I continue to support the Y and will always have a place in my heart for Judy. She will be missed. Her love shines on and her imprint on our world will last forever.
Wonderful Lady. Thank you Judy.
Sympathies and Prayers to Judy’s husband and family.
Tony DiBlasi, Old friend
Advisory Board Member, North Y
Judy was such an amazing woman! She was a mentor and friend, and made us all better because of her focus and love for the member and the individual. A fireball of energy and zest for life, she will not be forgotten as she had such a positive influence on all she came in contact with.