Judy M. Valliere (Droptiny)

Bay City, Michigan

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Judy M. Valliere, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished friend to many. Judy passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at her home at the age of 79.

Born on August 14, 1945, in Bay City, Michigan, Judy was the daughter of the late Paul and Virginia (Neering) Droptiny. She graduated from Bay City Central High School in 1963 and went on to build a life filled with kindness, connection, and laughter. On November 11, 1977, she married Rodney Valliere, the love of her life, with whom she shared a lifetime of beautiful memories.

Judy’s career spanned many years, first working at Short Freight Lines before joining Associated Freight Lines as a secretary. Later, she became a well-known and friendly face at McDonald’s on Wilder Road, where she worked from 1989 until her retirement in 2014. Her warmth and welcoming nature made a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.

A devoted member of Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish–St. Hyacinth Church, Judy embraced her faith and spent several years volunteering on the church funeral luncheon committee. She had an incredible memory, never forgetting a face or a name, and took joy in connecting with others. Whether she was chatting with friends, sharing meals, or visiting with loved ones, Judy’s presence was one that brought comfort and happiness to those around her.

She found beauty in nature and enjoyed flowers—at least for as long as she could keep them alive! She had a deep love for birds, dogs, and watching dog shows. Judy had a remarkable ability to know people everywhere she went,or at least recognize a relative of someone she met. Her gift for storytelling and vibrant personality made every conversation with her a delight.

Judy will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. Her legacy of love, laughter, and warmth will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Judy is survived by her husband Rodney, four children: Teresa (Preston) Woodby, Barbie (Mark) McInerney, Rodney Paul Valliere, and Craig (Sarah) Valliere, six grandchildren: Timothy Hess, Amber McInerney, Jessica McInerney, Brianna Woodby, Alexandra Woodby, and Tiffany Cozatt, son-in-law David Cozatt, sister Janet Haberland, brother-in-law Ken Carey, niece and nephews. Judy was predeceased by her parents Paul and Virginia, daughter Jamie Putnam-Cozatt, sister Mary Jane Carey and brother-in-law Cliff Haberland.

The Funeral Mass for Judy will be celebrated Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish-St. Hyacinth Church, 1515 Cass Ave., Bay City, Michigan 48708. Fr. Rick Filary will celebrate Mass. Family and friends will gather at Ambrose Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 30th from 4:00 to 8:00 PM and at church on Thursday after 10:00 AM. A Parish Vigil Service for Judy will be held Wednesday at 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Foundation. ambrosefuneralchapel.com