Judy Ann (Smith) Peterson, a devoted mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully June 29th, 2026, surrounded by family.

Born in Barstow, California, in May 1950 to Virgil and Lucille (Peel) Smith, Judy spent her formative years growing up in Nephi, By age 15, Judy had lost both her parents to cancer. Her mother’s sister, Esther Blackham, finished raising her in California. Having been a single child, Judy was excited to grow up with cousins in place of siblings. After high school, she went on to attend Brigham Young University.

In 1973, Judy married Steven Lewis Peterson of Manti, Utah. Their union was sealed for time and all eternity in the Manti Utah Temple. Though her life took a difficult turn with the passing of her beloved husband in 1977, Judy demonstrated remarkable strength and unwavering faith. As a single mother for years, she poured her heart into raising her three children. She navigated life’s many challenges with a resilient spirit, maintaining a happy disposition and a dedication to hard work that served as a profound example to all who knew her.

Judy was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had the opportunity to serve in many callings throughout the years. Her favorite callings were serving in the primary and Cub Scouts, where she found immense fulfillment in teaching children about Jesus Christ. Her legacy is defined by her strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ, her deep love for her family, and the comfort she found in the promise of a happy reunion with her husband and loved ones who preceded her in death.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Steven Peterson, her parents, Virgil and Lucille Smith, her brother–in-law, Alan Peterson, and many aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her three children and their families: Larry and Peggy Peterson, along with their children Steven (Gracee), Jackson, Lincoln, and Blakesley; Brett and Emily Peterson, and their children Landon, Gabriel, and Annabeth; and Karen and Joel Smith, with their children Dallin (Emma), Nathan (Eliza), Ian, Ben, and Declan.

She will be deeply missed by her 12 grandchildren and the many lives she touched through her service and kindness.

There will be a visitation in her honor on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 8:45 – 9:45 a.m. located at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 902 West 400 North, Payson, Utah. Her funeral service will immediately follow, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The funeral service for Judy will be streamed live. Please return to her memorial page shortly before 10:00 a.m. and click on the link below.

Judy Peterson Livestream Broadcast