Obituary Judith Elaine Ardd Rowland

Judith Elaine Ardd Rowland, 83, of Gulf Breeze, Florida, died peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025. William, her husband of 63 years, was by her side and her two children, Melisa Rowland and Todd Rowland, were nearby.

Judith was born on September 22, 1941, into the home of her parents, Linnie Hines Ardd and Clarence Albert Ardd and her older brother, Bobby. Judy lived a remarkable life characterized by love, compassion, perseverance, and a deep commitment and dedication to promoting the well-being of children. Her love and compassion were evidenced by Judy’s marriage to William for 63 years; her unwavering love and support for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; and her career as a schoolteacher that impacted many young lives.

Judy first became fascinated with the nurturing of children while babysitting as a teenager. This interest became a vocational calling, and Judy applied herself to this lifelong mission through higher education, practice both as a teacher and a mother, and as a role model and support for fellow teachers. Judy often fulfilled the role of mentor and advisor for fellow teachers as well as parents wanting to improve their capacity to teach and nurture their own children.

Judy received her bachelor’s degree at Mercer University in 1963 and went on to obtain a master’s degree in early education from the University of Maryland in 1976. During the time between her two degrees, Judy worked with children across many age groups, teaching grades pre-K through 12. Most advantageously, Judy integrated her academic experiences with the real-world adventures of raising two children. As a result, Judy became an excellent teacher, known for her capacity to engage students in a manner that was supportive, developmentally appropriate, and yet challenged them to grow.

Some of her fondest professional memories and proudest accomplishments centered on her time as a teacher at Oriole Beach Elementary School, where she taught 4th and 5th grade for many years. Judy ended her career with what she described as her favorite time professionally, as the teacher of the S.M.I.L.E. program. As the creator and lead teacher in this program, she helped 4th and 5th grade students in the gifted and talented program study for, organize and fund bi-annual field trips alternating between Washington DC and the Mountain Trail Outdoor School in North Carolina. Many memories were created and lives enriched during this time.

Judy also had a rich personal life. She and William were married in 1961 and moved to Gulf Breeze with their two children, Melisa and Todd. After her retirement, Judy was actively involved with making porcelain dolls and sewing with her dear quilting group friends. She traveled to the United Kingdom, Europe, and across the US with family and friends and spent treasured time with her four grandchildren. Judy and William were members of the Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church, and Judy firmly believed in a higher order and purpose to the universe, sustained by a loving and divine God. She lived her life as an example, believing actions were more important than words and demonstrated love, compassion, and acceptance towards others daily.

Judy will be greatly missed by her husband William, children Todd (Ruth) Rowland and Melisa (Scott Henggeler) Rowland, Grandchildren Lee (Andrew Campos), Alexis (Kathryn), Santos and Waylon Henggeler and great grandchildren Camon and Andie Campos. She is predeceased by her parents, Clarence and Linnie Ardd, bother, Bobby Ardd, beloved cousin, Linda Wood and dear friend, Gloria Norris. The family is especially thankful for the time, love and dedication provided by our friend and caregiver extraordinaire Shae Irlbeck.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday June 7th at 2 pm at the United Methodist Church in Gulf Breeze. In lieu of flowers, please give to an account set up in Judy’s name at the Santa Rosa Education Foundation. https://Givebutter.com/RowlandJ

In remembrance of Judith Rowland