Obituary for Judith Diane “Judi” Candler

Judith Diane “Judi” Candler (née Pickering), 79, of Kenton, passed away at home on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, following a brief illness.

If you were fortunate enough to know Judi, you knew a woman whose warmth filled a room long before she spoke. Her infectious smile, unmistakable laugh, incredible singing voice, and heartfelt hugs made people feel welcome, valued, and loved. Above all else, Judi loved her Lord, her family, and her many friends, and she lived each day in a way that reflected those priorities.

Judi was born on January 12, 1947, at San Antonio Hospital in Kenton, Ohio, to Richard “Dick” and Phyllis (McCall) Pickering, who preceded her in death. She grew up in Kenton and graduated from Kenton Senior High School in the Class of 1965. A gifted vocalist from an early age, she spent much of her youth singing throughout the community before attending Kent State University, where she studied vocal performance.

On September 23, 1967, Judi married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, G. James “Jim” Candler. Their marriage of nearly 57 years was built on unwavering devotion, shared faith, countless adventures, and a deep friendship that only grew stronger with time. Whether they were traveling together, visiting wineries, reading side by side, or reminiscing with lifelong friends, they found joy simply in being together. Following Jim’s passing in 2024, Judi often spoke of missing her soulmate, and while she continued to embrace life with grace, those who loved her knew a part of her heart had gone with him.

Her greatest blessings were her family. Judi was a devoted mother to J.R. Candler of West Virginia and Phylissa (Todd) Daquino of Kenton. Becoming “Nana” to her beloved grandson, Henry, was one of life’s greatest joys. She rarely missed an opportunity to cheer him on at a game or applaud him from the audience during a musical performance, celebrating every milestone with unmistakable pride.

Faith was the foundation of Judi’s life. She faithfully served First Methodist Church of Kenton in many capacities, including 18 years as the church’s office manager and secretary. After retiring, she remained an active member of the Chancel Choir and quietly served others by delivering Our Daily Bread devotionals to the church. Her faith was never something she simply professed. It was something she lived through kindness, generosity, and a sincere love for others.

Judi’s beautiful soprano voice was a gift she joyfully shared throughout her life. She especially treasured singing with The Revelations, a group whose members secretly enjoyed the alternate name they nearly chose: Three Saints and a Sinner. Music remained one of the great joys of her life, connecting her with lifelong friends and countless meaningful memories.

She also found joy in life’s quieter moments. She loved working crossword puzzles and Sudoku, spending time outdoors, reading a good book, traveling, admiring horses, tracing family history through genealogy, and remembering a particularly special trip to Ireland where she kissed the famous Blarney Stone. She gave generously of her time as a member of the Minerva Club, Mothers Club, Hardin County Genealogy Society, Hardin Northern Garden Club, Kenton Music Club, Kenton Elks Lodge #157, and as a longtime horse riding advisor for 4-H.

Judi had a personality that was impossible to overlook. She could light up a room with her presence, greet someone with a hug that instantly felt like home, and stubbornly stand her ground when she believed in something, a trait her family remembers with equal parts laughter and affection. Her kindness was genuine, her friendships enduring, and even the simple “XOXO” that closed so many of her text messages became a small reminder of how naturally she expressed love.

She is survived by her son, James Richard Candler of West Virginia; her daughter, Phylissa (Todd) Daquino of Kenton; her cherished grandson, Henry; her sister, Terri (Tony) Boyle of East Tawas, Michigan; her niece, Andee DeMatio; and her great-nephew, Austin DeMatio.

In addition to her parents, Judi was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim.

Graveside service at Grove Cemetery TBA, followed by a Celebration of Life honoring both Judi and Jim at Kenton Elks Lodge #157. Service details will be shared once finalized.

In keeping with Judi’s lifelong love of reading, and in honor of Jim’s dedicated service to the library, memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Lou Johnson Hardin County District Library in lieu of flowers.

Judi found comfort and hope in the promises of Scripture. As Romans 8:38-39 says:

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Though her beautiful voice has fallen silent, the kindness she shared, the faith she lived, the love she freely gave, and the countless lives she touched will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at pricefh.net.