Judith Ann Aker, 83, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at 2:47 p.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at Autumn Trace Senior Community in Columbia City.

Born on January 27, 1940, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Mary Jane (Boschet) Scribner.  Growing up in Fort Wayne, she graduated from North Side High School in 1958.

On September 3, 1960, she married Ronald D. Aker.  They made their home in Jefferson Twp., Whitley County raising two children.  Ronald died on September 17, 2004.

Becoming active in county government, she was elected as Whitley County Clerk serving two terms from 1986-1994.  Her combined service in the Clerk's office spanned 16 years.

Through the years she was active in community events and volunteering at church.  Family was always her priority and when the grandkids came along, they became her focus and joy.  She was a regular at the Friday lunch with her girlfriends, often meeting at Bandidos in Fort Wayne.  She leaves behind her constant companion, her Chihuahua dog, Keaton.

Surviving are her children, Scott (Amy) Aker of Grand Junction, CO and Laura (Gregory) Ormsby of Columbia City; grandchildren, Gillian Aker, Maria Nappi, Kayla (Caleb) Wigent, and Gary (Kennedy) Ormsby; and great-grandchildren, Bracen & Regan Wigent.  Additionally, her step-brother Tom Stoots of Florida.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Scribner and step-sisters, Sandra Kay Kruse and Connie Makin.

A memorial gathering is 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with a Memorial Service to begin at 3 p.m.  Burial will be at a later date beside her husband at the Broxon Cemetery, Columbia City.

Memorials in Judy's honor are to the Humane Society of Whitley County.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Autumn Trace for their professional and heartfelt care.