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Judith A. Aiken, 87, of Altoona, passed away Monday at UPMC Altoona, surrounded by family. She was born in Altoona, the only child of the late M. Thelma St. John.
On Nov. 18, 1961, she married Paul J. Aiken in Altoona. He preceded her in death on April 9, 2011.
Surviving are six children: Michele Tyson (Jim) of Middletown, Denise Aiken of Altoona, Karen Bassler (Allan) of Martinsburg, Krista Beach (Bill) of Elizabethtown, Vicki Litzinger (Pat) of Bellwood and Paul Aiken (fiancee, Kristie Watson) of Bellwood; nine grandchildren: Emily Tyson (Alex Petrenko) of Orlando, Fla.; Gabry Tyson and Connor Taylor of Hartford, Conn.; Raphael "RJ" Bassler of Gunnison, Colo.; Kayla Beach of Mechanicsburg; Noah Aiken of Bellwood; Helena Bassler of Altoona; Brody Beach of Newington, Conn.; Evalyna Aiken of Bellwood; and Braylon Litzinger of Bellwood; a great-grandchild, Roman Petrenko; and two lifelong friends, Carol "Shine" Casillo and Carol "Sis" O'Brien.
Judy was a 1958 graduate of Altoona Catholic High School. Through the '80s and '90s, she was a permanent fixture in the bleachers of Bishop Guilfoyle's sporting events.
She was a lifetime member of the Bavarian Aid Society, where she enjoyed many years of fellowship, laughter and lasting friendships that she cherished.
Jude was always up for a party and hosted many at the house in Altoona and the "Ranch" in Riggles Gap. There was always room for one more at her table. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. Her big smile and quiet presence will be greatly missed by many.
A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, where friends will be welcome to celebrate Jude's life.
In lieu of flowers, please provide a donation to Northern Blair Backpack Program, 517 Pinecroft Ave., Altoona PA 16601; or 28th Street Church of the Brethren's Food Pantry, 2800 Union Ave., Altoona, PA 16602.