Judy Abraham

Judy Abraham, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away after a long and valiant struggle with ALS. Through it all, she never lost her love of life and love of others. Her signature smile continued to light every room she entered, even to the end.

Born and raised in East Lansing, Michigan, Judy was the third of six children of Barbara and William Plesscher. She graduated from East Lansing High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education followed by a master's degree from Michigan State University. She was a devoted “Spartan” her entire life.

Judy was a storyteller, especially when it came to her childhood adventures growing up with her five siblings. She adored nature, hiking, and traveling — most of all with her family. She embraced the beauty in everyday life and treasured the many deep friendships she cultivated over the years.

She spent the majority of her working career teaching both special and regular education sixth graders at West Middle School. She was a dedicated and beloved educator, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students. Known for her kindness, patience and firmness, as well as her unwavering commitment to the growth and well-being of her students, many of her former students remember her nurturing spirit and the impact she had on their lives, with some keeping in touch with her all these years.

More than anything, Judy loved her family. She often said her greatest joy in life was being a mother and grandmother. She was married to her devoted husband, Tom, for 52 years. Tom was her steadfast caregiver in the final years of her life, and their love was a constant source of strength and comfort.

Judy is survived by her 101-year-old mother, Barbara Plesscher; her husband, Tom; her children: Jeff (Tuyet) Abraham and Jennifer (Andrew) Riker; her grandchildren: Emma, Abigail, Leah, and Sam; her siblings: Jim (Debbie), Bob (Katie), and Patty; and many dear friends and former students who felt her impact deeply.

She was preceded in death by her sister Susie Chandler in 2019, her brother Billy Plesscher in 2015, and her father William Plesscher in 2006.

She will be remembered for her compassion, her laughter, her dedication to others, and the joy she brought into the lives of everyone who knew her.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Twydell and the ALS Clinic in Grand Rapids, as well as to her devoted caregivers Dana Albertson and KC Vos, and the compassionate team at Centrica Care Navigators. Their care, kindness, and support made all the difference during Judy’s final years.

In lieu of flowers, it was Judy's wish that memorial donations be made to the Susan Mast ALS Foundation or The Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo - Faculty Endowment.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, from 3 PM to 4 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A Life Story Service will begin at 4 PM followed by a reception in the Life Story Center where food, drinks, and stories will be shared. Celebrate Judy’s life online by sharing your favorite photos and memories on her personalized web page at BetzlerLifeStory.com.

“May the sun bring you new energy by day,

May the moon softly restore you by night,

May the rain wash away your worries,

May the breeze blow new strength into your being,

May you walk gently through the world and know its beauty all the days of your life.”

— Apache Blessing