Judith Rae (Dougherty) Hammersmark was born January 21, 1942, in Baker City, Oregon. Judy was the second of two daughters born to Baker City mailman Elmer Dougherty and elementary school teacher Ethel (Ebell) Dougherty. Along with her older sister Lee Ann, they comprised the neighborhood duo known affectionately by all as the Dougherty girls. The Dougherty girls were infamous for their sweet smiles, intelligent banter and love of stray cats. Baker City was a very safe playground with grandparents, uncles and friends around every corner. Judy was known as a strong swimmer, allowing her to become a lifeguard at Radium Hot Springs, a job she remembered and treasured for years.
In 1963 Judy met and married the love of her life, Marvin Hammersmark. Together they loved and raised three kids. Marvin’s career with the Bureau of Land Management led them to live in Ely, Nevada; Lakeview, Oregon; and Rawlins, Wyoming, before retiring to a small farm outside Ballantine, Montana. Judy made lifelong friends wherever she went.
Judy loved to read and write. Her book collection required its own room in the house. This love of literature inspired her to become an author on her own. Judy wrote and published two books and many short stories. Her most popular book “Operation Nest Builder” went through several reprints and could be found in most Christian Book stores in the 1980s. Judy also loved healthy cooking, ensuring her family was nourished and well fed. Judy became a vitamin aficionado, boasting a vitamin collection that rivaled her book shelf.
Judy’s greatest pride came in being a wife, mother, and homemaker. Judy’s first reaction to any situation was a sweet smile and generosity. Judy liked to laugh and was known to enjoy conversation. Judy was passionate about her beliefs ranging from vitamins, wheat bread and a free market economy. But mostly Judy was passionate about her family and her love for her husband Marvin.
Judy is survived by her beloved sister Lee Ann (Dougherty) Guess, San Antonio, TX; her three children: John Hammersmark (Wanda), New Salem ND; Jacque Hammersmark Wohlfeil (Rodd), Worden, MT; and Kirsten Hammersmark Montoya, Billings, MT.
Marvin and Judy treasured their grandchildren: Brittni Davenport (Ryan), Kaci Johnson (Jeremy), Zackery Wohlfeil (Ellie), Donte Wohlfeil, Isaiah Wohlfeil, Jason Wohlfeil, David Wohlfeil, Shannon Duncan (Richard), Marvin Hammersmark (Natosha) Patrick Hammersmark (Yamilex), Raven Montoya, Skye Montoya, and great-grandchildren: Autumn Hammersmark, Knight Hammersmark, Kelby Mae Hammersmark, Embrie Davenport and Otto Davenport.
Judy was preceded in death by her husband and soul mate of 54 years Marvin Hammersmark and by her father and mother Elmer and Ethel Dougherty.
Marvin’s one wish was that he and his wife be allowed to spend their final days at home and with loved ones without involving a nursing home. Through the teamwork of their children, spouses, and grandchildren, this dream came true. Our mother and father died in our arms.
Our hearts are breaking, but we think mom is ok with that. All she ever wanted is to be dearly loved.
