Judy Orthel

Judy Orthel passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026. She entered the Lord’s hands, knowing He chose her before the world was known.

Born in 1951 to Raymond and Caroline Douglas, Judy grew up on the Douglas orchard in Emmett. Toni Graham (Boise) was a childhood play partner (and niece) who remained her dearest friend throughout her life. She graduated from the University of Idaho in 1973, completing her degree cum laude in three years. She met Gerald Orthel while at the university. Their first date was an Idaho-Boise State basketball game (the Vandals won). They married in May 1976. On the Orthel family farm in southern Idaho, her garden, dairy calves, Simmental cattle, and cherished golden retrievers filled the few parts of her days not dedicated to family.

Despite having MS symptoms for 60 years, Judy never complained and stayed active in her favorite activities. She volunteered in classrooms and at church. She supported many 4-H projects and fair events, and was regularly in the stands for Filer High School baseball and basketball games. She ensured family recipes and traditions were passed forward.

In recent years, she enjoyed meeting with friends at BSF: Bible Study Fellowship and horseback riding at Rising Stars Therapeutic Riding Arena.

She is survived by her husband, Gerald; children, Scott (Emma) Orthel of Tyler, Minnesota, Krista (Doug) Huettig of Hazelton, and Bryan Orthel of Bloomington, Indiana; and seven grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Joan Blaine.

Memorial donations may be made to Rising Stars Therapeutic Riding Arena.

Judy’s Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 11:00 am at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2055 Filer Ave. E., Twin Falls, Idaho 83301.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family in the guestbook section below.