Judy Mae Grahs

Judy Mae Grahs, of Tampa, Fl.  Born on March 28, 1942, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, after a long illness.  

She was the daughter of the late James Harrison Applegate and Mildred "Jean" Applegate. She was also preceded in death by her brother, James R. Applegate, and her sister, Cheryl Lynn Applegate. Judy graduated from Central High School in 1960 and became a certified beautician in 1961. She found joy in her work, styling hair from home while building lasting friendships.  On September 7, 1963, she married the late Bernard "Bernie" Karl Grahs in Grand Rapids. Together, they raised four children: Stephen Karl Grahs (Victoria), Ronald William Grahs (Darcy), Jean Marie McGannon (Mark), and Michael Robert Grahs (Erinn). She was a proud grandmother to Christopher, Katelyn, Andrew, Kayla, Jennifer, Harrison, Jarrett, Molly, Tanner, and Tyler and had six great-grandchildren.  Judy and Bernie lived in Jenison, Michigan, before relocating to Tampa, Florida, after the Blizzard of 1978. In Tampa, she created a warm and welcoming home for family and friends. She cherished time spent with her extended family and eagerly anticipated annual sisters' weekends. She also formed close friendships with neighbors in Pebble Creek Village.  She and Bernie shared a passion for travel, embarking on cruises and adventures around the world. Locally, she loved visiting St. Pete Beach with family and spending time at Harry's Beach Bar. A devoted animal lover, she adored her dogs over the years, including Penny, Sasha, Daisey and Roxie.  A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, April 9th, from 6 to 8 PM at Heritage Isles Golf Club, 10630 Plantation Bay Dr., Tampa, FL 33647. Guests are encouraged to wear country western attire in honor of Judy’s love for country music.  Judy’s kindness and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew her.