Julia A. "Judy" Tellis

Julia A. “Judy” Tellis passed away on October 18, 2026, at the age of 82. Judy was married to her beloved husband, Wayne O. Tellis, for 62 years.

She is survived by her husband, Wayne; her children, Geneva Tellis-Taylor, Wayne E. Tellis, and Nicole A. (Julian) Wiggins; her grandchildren, Wayne J. Tellis, Lauren N. Taylor, Rian M. Tellis, Julian N. Wiggins, Kamryn N. Wiggins, and Ava M. Tellis; and her great-grandchildren, Roux and Xavier. She is also survived by her siblings, Ava Taylor, Daniel Suggs (Virginia), Anthony Suggs (Susan), Dr. Anna Land (Bryan), Alicia Nelson, and Brother-in-law; Pastor Garland Mays Sr., along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and friends.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Elgie P. and Eleanor Ramona (née Simpson) Suggs, and her siblings, David Suggs, Pastor Victoria Harris, and Pastor Rita Mays, as well as her brothers-in-law; John Harris and Vernal Taylor.

Judy was a retired schoolteacher from District 147 in West Harvey, Illinois. She served as president of the teachers union and was a member of Soroptimist Illiana. In her free time, Judy enjoyed bowling and traveling to Las Vegas with her husband, as well as spending time with her family.

Judy will be remembered for her dedication to education, her love for her family, and the many memories she shared with those closest to her.