Judith Ann Paterka, 79, of Sebastian, Florida, passed away on December 28, 2024, with her family by her side.  Judy was born on December 22, 1945, in Bedford, Ohio, and graduated from Brecksville High School in 1964. She was baptized and worshipped at Assumption Church in Broadview Heights, Ohio. She attended business college after high school and worked in the banking and insurance industries, as well as in retail businesses. She married Dan Paterka on July 5, 1969. The couple celebrated 55 years of marriage.

Judy had a passion for horses. For over 30 years, she raised, rode and showed horses. A recent highlight for Judy was riding a horse along the Atlantic coast on South Hutchinson Island. She also loved dogs and provided a great home to many canines over the years. She will be greatly missed by her 4-pound teacup poodle, Tiki, and chihuahua, Sheraka.

Judy enjoyed spending time in Marblehead, Ohio, at the "lake house," located on Sandusky Bay.  She loved boating and spending time with her many friends at Plymouth Shore on the Bay. Judy headed up the entertainment committee for many years and donated a great deal of time planning and hosting events at the park. She loved planning golf cart parades, holiday events and 50/50 raffles. Judy loved traveling, vacationing and RV-ing.

Judy and Dan's dream was to retire in Sebastian, Florida, and their dream became reality in 2016, when they purchased their retirement home. Judy loved the warm weather, palm trees and boating on the intracoastal waterway near their home. She enjoyed listening to live music at various venues in the area and having lunch with her lady friends!

Judy was a bright light to all who knew her. She loved decorating for the holidays, entertaining friends and watching football. Judy had a heart of gold and was a good friend to everyone. She prayed for all in need and truly cared about others. She will be dearly missed by her friends and family.

Judy is survived by her husband, Daniel Paterka, son Shawn Paterka, daughter Shannon Paterka, and brothers Jerry Baley and Alan Baley. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Pauline Baley.

A celebration of Judy's life will be held at Seawinds Funeral Home, 735 South Fleming Street, Sebastian, Florida, on Wednesday, January 29, from 4-7 pm. A mass in her honor will be held at St. Victor's Church in Richfield, Ohio, at a future date.