Judith Ann Wetzel Colaianni, age 90, passed away peacefully at her home in Parkville, Maryland, on December 23, 2025. Born on June 28, 1935, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Gladys Grace Griffith Wetzel and Donald Lloyd Wetzel. She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers, James Griffith Wetzel and Thomas John (Jack) Wetzel.

Judy is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 69 years, Joseph Charles Colaianni Jr.; her daughter, Jody Allison McNary (Owbra "Mick") of Eldersburg; her son, James Joseph Colaianni (Cynthia) of Hanover, MD; and her cherished grandchildren: Danielle Nicole Colaianni, Nicholas Dryden McNary (Caroline Michelle), and Caroline Elizabeth McNary.

A Life of Service and Love
Judith moved to Baltimore at the age of two and grew up in Hamilton. She graduated from Eastern High School and The Union Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, class of 1956. On January 5, 1957, she married Joe, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and adventure.

Her career reflected her deep commitment to caring for others. Judy served as head nurse in the emergency room at Union Memorial Hospital. When her children were young, she worked as a Red Cross nurse on Saturdays so she could be with her children the other days and then she worked as the school nurse at St. Paul's School from 1975 to 1996.

Faith and Community
Judy's faith was central to her life. She attended Faith Presbyterian Church on Loch Raven Boulevard, where she served as a deacon, taught Sunday school, participated in Stephen Ministries, and took her children along as she visited shut-ins, and volunteered for Meals on Wheels. She even played steel drums at church, bringing joy to those around her.

Later Years
In 1989, Judy and Joe moved to Lutherville, and later to Oak Crest Retirement Community in Parkville in 2011. At Oak Crest, Judy remained active in Protestant Ministries, chaired the church council, ushered, and prepared communion. She served on the Residents' Advisory Committee, joined four bridge clubs, enjoyed fitness and art classes, organized high school reunions and "Judy dinners," and volunteered at the Treasure Chest thrift store. She lovingly cared for sick family and friends, provided respite for caregivers, and engaged memory care patients in meaningful activities. Judy also delighted residents by painting beautiful rocks and hiding them for others to find. She and Joe traveled extensively, creating treasured memories together.

Her Spirit
Judy's quick wit, love of storytelling, and infectious laugh never faded. A compassionate listener with a calming presence, she lived fully and was known for her optimistic, bubbly spirit.
A nurturing and devoted mother, she shared with her husband, Joe, nearly seven decades of marriage marked by deep love and unwavering devotion.

Judy's life was a beautiful example of compassion, faith, and joy. She touched countless lives with her kindness and humor, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed.

Celebration of Life
Her celebration of life will be private.

In Lieu of Flowers
Donations may be made to:
Philanthropy – Oak Crest Resident Care Fund
8820 Walther Boulevard
Parkville, Maryland 21234
Phone: 410-513-2213

This fund provides support to Oak Crest residents who, due to healthcare costs, have exhausted their resources to meet basic living expenses.

Please go to www.peacefulalternatives.com and leave condolences in her online guest book.