Judy Lynn Windle (Lauffer) 77, of Helena, MT, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Judy was born on December 15, 1948, in Conrad, MT to Ernest and Jenevie Lauffer. Judy was the beloved wife of her husband Cole, the mother of her two daughters, Candi and Kristy, and her son, Steve; a grandmother to six grandchildren; and a great-grandmother to one. Throughout her life, Judy was known for her sense of humor, good cooking, generosity, and her love of her family and friends.

Judy had many careers. She was a hairdresser, bank teller, real estate agent, Mom, 4-H leader, and grandma. Judy was passionate about helping others and that especially carried over into her real estate career. Outside of work, Judy found great joy in creating beautiful crafts such as floral arrangements, porcelain dolls, doll clothes, ornaments, ceramics, and using her sewing machine. She also enjoyed baking and decorating during the holidays, gardening, and playing cards.

Those who knew Judy will remember her for her delicious homemade food, her love of the Montana State Bobcats, and her intense loyalty to family and friends alike. She cherished time with family and friends and took particular pride in being generous to others.

Judy is survived by her husband Cole Windle, daughters, Candi (Frank) Preskar, Kristy (Jeff) McGovern, and son, Steve (Jeanne) Windle; grandchildren, Rudy Preskar, Kati Preskar, Kaitlin (Austin) Williams, Madi McGovern, CJ McGovern and Lexie Windle, and great-granddaughter, Daisy Williams; sister-in-law, Kathy Lauffer; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents Ernie and Jen Lauffer; a brother, Ernest “Butch” Lauffer; a sister, Annona “Nona” (Jim) Larkin.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Life Covenant Church on October 3rd at 11 am. Judy’s life was a gift to all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Her family is at peace knowing Judy is in heaven with her Jesus—healed and breathing easy.