Judith Barbara Sumey

Judy passed in Casper, Wyoming on May 31, 2025, of complications from a fall.

She was born in Casper to Donald W.J. and Helen (Arters) Richards on January 30, 1944. Judy graduated with honors from Natrona County High School in 1962. She went on to earn an Associates Degree from Casper College in 1964. From there she went to work in the oil business as a secretary, and made many friends with her bosses and co-workers, as well as engaging in creative writing, amateur theater and all-around fun. Her rollicking humor and imagination were the light of many a gathering. Her involvement in theater was as actress, tech person and administrator, and her circle was close-knit, caring and welcoming. After her marriage to Shelden Sumey ended on October 1, 1976, she went on to more adventures, while retaining her close ties to her circle. Ultimately, she worked 31 years for Leo Riley & Co., as a claims processor, computer operator (when computers were arcane) and fill-in receptionist, retiring in 2009. With her husband she was active in the Anglican and Lutheran Church, and she endured his political dabbling after the mis-80’s. Judy was a singularly cheerful person throughout the good times and the bad.

Judy was a member of TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) from the 1970’s, and made many friends in that circle, who will really miss her.

In recent years Judy was involved with Foster Grandparents at Head Start and Lincoln School, and we all can testify to her vast and good impact on the children she worked with. She was well able to bring out the best in them, by loving and caring.

In these endeavors she had the unconditional support of her husband.

In addition to her husband, Judy is survived by her sister Janice (Bob) Cunningham of Gold Canyon, Arizona, her nephew Jacob Cunningham, great-nephew Levi Cunningham and his family. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Donald James ”Jamie,” and her beloved and special great-niece Taylor Renee Cunningham.

A celebration of life will be held at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 318 East Sixth, Casper, Wyoming on Saturday September 13, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Mike Eisenman officiating. Bustard and Jacoby Funeral Home will be handling funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Our Saviour’s Yough Program, the Casper Humane Society and the Food for Thought Program.