Obituary of Judy Faye Garrett

Judy Faye (Altland) Garrett, 94, of Elizabethtown, passed away peacefully with family by her side on April 1, 2026. Born in 1931 in Hanover, Pennsylvania, Judy was the only child of the late Edgar and Virgie Altland. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” Garrett, to whom she was married for 52 years.

Judy graduated from East Berlin High School in 1950. Following their wedding, she and Bob lived in Spring Grove, Pennsylvania, where Judy served as president of the PTO and treasurer of the Women’s Club. After moving their family to Elizabethtown in 1967, Judy devoted her time to raising her three sons while supporting Bob’s teaching and coaching career at Elizabethtown College. Later, she thoroughly enjoyed her role as secretary at Bainbridge Elementary School for 17 years before retiring in 1993.

Judy and Bob spent more than 50 summers in Cape May, New Jersey. They cherished sunny days at the beach with friends and family, and hosting loved ones at their trailer in the Depot Travel Park. After Bob’s passing, Judy continued her trips “on the way to Cape May” whenever possible. The longtime Garrett home on College Avenue was a frequent gathering place for four generations of family members and many friends, all of whom were always encouraged to “stop in!” In retirement, Judy and Bob also enjoyed spending the winter months at their home in Citrus Park in Bonita Springs, Florida. Judy also loved gathering with extended family from York, Hanover, and Spring Grove for decades of holiday get-togethers.

Judy was a member of Christ Church, United Church of Christ in Elizabethtown and was active in the Elizabethtown Women’s Club and the PTO during her sons’ school years. In more recent years, she enjoyed welcoming Elizabethtown College students from service-learning groups into her home. Her home’s central location on College Avenue allowed her to enjoy watching the rhythm of campus life. Above all, Judy’s greatest joy throughout her life was spending time with family and friends.

Judy, fondly known as “Mam”, was a devoted friend, mother, and grandmother who invested deeply in the lives of those she loved. She was immensely proud of her three sons: Randy, husband of Debra (Bice) Garrett of Elizabethtown; Terry of Elizabethtown; and Jim, husband of Cheri (Ney) Garrett of Mount Joy. She is survived by five granddaughters, Kristin (Garrett) Messick, Lindsey (Garrett) Elias, Haley (Garrett) Burns, Kelly (Garrett) Flowers, and Carli Garrett. Mam also leaves behind one grandson, Dalton Garrett, who was her best friend and devoted caretaker in her later years. She adored her seven great-grandchildren, all of whom were fortunate to share in her life.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Christ Church, United Church of Christ in Elizabethtown. There will be no viewing. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of the service, with a luncheon to follow. Interment will be private with immediate family.  To express a condolence with the family or for additional information, visit www.spencefuneralsaervices.com.