Judith Lynn (Woolsey) Schell

Judith Lynn (Woolsey) Schell, born on December 31, 1957, was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who passed away on March 25, 2026, surrounded by the love
she so freely gave to others throughout her life.

Judy was the daughter of the late William “Pete” Woolsey and Evelyn Woolsey. On April 25, 1981, she married the love of her life, Raymond “Doug” Schell, and together they built a life rooted in a
relationship with Jesus Christ and a shared a devotion to serving those around them.

Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into each one of them. Judy was a devoted mother to four children: Jenna (Schell) Bechtold and her husband Eric of Parrish, Florida;
Molly (Schell) Sheehan and her husband Edward of Wildwood, Missouri; Hannah (Schell) Cartwright and her husband Randall of Ozark, Missouri; and Andrew Schell and his wife Candice of Jerseyville.

She took immense pride in the lives and families they built and found deep fulfillment in being present for each of them.

Judy was also a fun-loving and playful grandmother to thirteen grandchildren: Addison Bechtold, Barrett Bechtold, Grant Bechtold, Mary Sheehan, William Sheehan, Daphne Sheehan, Beatrix
Sheehan, Saylem Cartwright, Charley Cartwright, Mia Cartwright, Nellie Cartwright, Knox Schell, and Nolan Schell. Her grandchildren adored her and affectionately called her “Sugar,” a nickname that perfectly reflected her kind heart and the sweetness she brought into their lives.

She touched everyone she met with her kindness, inquisitive mind, and humility—a rare combination that allowed others to feel truly seen, valued, and loved. Often slipping into “heavy, deep and real” conversations or what she called “HDR”. Judy was known as a fantastic host and someone who could always make others feel welcome. She was often the life of the party, bringing joy wherever she went.

She worked tirelessly to ensure her home was always a place of warmth, beauty, and generosity, often staying up late into the evening rearranging and refining things until everything was just right.

Judy also found great joy in tending her flower garden, where she created an elegant space brimming with life and color. Judy loved the warmth of sunshine on her face and was her most relaxed with her feet in the sand and listening to the waves crashing in the breeze. After years of enduring cold Illinois winters, she was able to spend cherished time with Doug and her family at their home in Florida, where she made wonderful friends and built a strong sense of community.

Most importantly, Judy had a deep and personal relationship with Jesus Christ and never missed an opportunity to share her love of the Lord with others. Throughout her long battle with cancer, she confronted every step with bravery and strength, never losing her faith, trusting in her Savior and leaning on His promises. Her faith was a guiding light in her life and a source of strength and hope to those around her.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, William “Pete” Woolsey and Evelyn Woolsey, and her two brothers, Kenneth Woolsey and Chris Woolsey.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 45 years, Raymond “Doug” Schell of Jerseyville; her sister, Sharon Beierman of Jerseyville; her brothers, John Woolsey of Jerseyville and Shawn
Woolsey of Kane; her four children and their spouses; and her thirteen beloved grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her legacy of love, faith, and joy.

“This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10

Memorials can be made to First Assembly of God Church in Jerseyville on behalf of Friends of Children Everywhere, Casa Bernabe Orphanage in Guatemala. www.casabernabe.org.

Flowers may be sent to First Assembly of God in Jerseyville.

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