Judy Fosheim, age 78, of Midland, South Dakota, died on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at her home in Midland.

Visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. with a vigil service at 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 18, at St. William Catholic Church in Midland.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, October 19, at St. William Catholic Church in Midland with Father Janusz Korbin as celebrant.

Interment will follow at the Midland Cemetery.

Judith Dianne “Judy” (Nemec) Fosheim was born January 30, 1948, in Pierre, South Dakota, to Ernest and Bessie (Sheeley) Nemec.

Judy grew up on her family’s ranch north of Midland, where she learned from an early age the importance of family, hard work, and country life. She attended the Phoeba School, a country school located north of the family ranch. Her upbringing on the ranch helped shape the strong, hardworking, and caring woman she would become.

Judy was, through and through, a “Daddy’s Girl,” sharing a special bond with her father, Ernest, that remained dear to her throughout her life. Family was never limited to blood for Judy. She was blessed with friendships that grew into family, including the Olsens, who held a special place in her life and heart.

On February 21, 1966, Judy was united in marriage to John Fosheim in Midland, South Dakota. Together, they built a life centered around family, community, hard work, and many wonderful memories. Over the years, they were blessed with six children and also opened their home and hearts to nephew Larry McLaughlin and four foreign exchange students, Stephanie, Ida, Pascale, and Lorena.

John and Judy first made their home at the Linder’s place west of Midland before moving into town in 1971. In 1973, they purchased Erv’s gas business and renamed it Fosheim Oil Company, beginning another chapter in their life together.

Throughout her life, Judy was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary and St. William Catholic Church. She drove for the Midland Ambulance and worked for Philip Health Services. She had a deep love for her family and community and was always willing to give her time and talents to others.

Judy enjoyed camping, hunting, four-wheeling, NASCAR and, most of all, spending time with her family. Christmas Eve held an especially dear place in her heart. Each year, she eagerly looked forward to having her family come home, filling the house with conversation, laughter, food, and the joy of simply being together.

One of Judy’s proudest community traditions was directing the beloved Hayes Play for 13 years. She poured her heart, creativity, and countless hours into each production, creating memories not only for those who participated but also for the many people who came to enjoy the performances year after year.

Judy also worked as an aide at both Hayes (2005-2007) and Cheyenne (2006-2022) rural schools. She treasured the students she worked with, and they brought tremendous joy to her life. Her caring nature, patience, and genuine interest in others allowed her to make a lasting impression on many young lives.

Above all else, Judy’s greatest joy was her family. The life she built with John, the children they raised, the people they welcomed into their home, the friends who became family, and the traditions they created together were among her greatest treasures.

Judy also found great comfort in the companionship of her loyal cat, Dippy. A constant presence by her side, Dippy seemed to know just when she needed a little extra comfort and was always there to keep her company.

Judy will be remembered for her devotion to family, her service to her community, her love for children, her adventurous spirit, and the many ways she brought people together. She had a gift for making people feel welcomed, loved, and part of the family. The traditions she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the memories she created will continue to live on through the family, friends, students, and community she loved so dearly.

Survivors include six children: Tena (Andrew Reckling) Slovek of Philip, Jacob (Elizabeth) Fosheim of Sundance, WY, Patrick (Melissa) Fosheim of Midland, Angela (Aaron) Doolittle of Midland, Jared (Tracy) Fosheim of Midland, and Crystal (Levi) Neuharth of Fort Pierre; 23 grandchildren: Casey (April), Heather (Kalvin), Sierra (Tyler), Kash, Dakota (Ashley), Shasta (Tyler), Jesse (Amy), Sheyanne, Lindsey, Lane (Aubrey), Cole, Cassidy, Baxter, Carissa (Matt), Thomas (Megan), Clayton (Tianna), Kaitlyn, Colby (Camrie) Kalli, Johnathon, Justin, and Kaydee; 18 great-grandchildren; brothers John (Linda) Nemec and Tom (Theresa) Nemec; sisters-in-law Laurel Nemec, Edith Schofield, Sylvia Fosheim, Jackie Fosheim, Tina (Orlyn) Haug, Carol Fosheim, and Ruthie (Lou) Gassner; brother-in-law George Gerig; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband John on March 18, 2003; her parents Ernest and Bessie Nemec; grandson Jonathon Fosheim; sisters Teresa McLaughlin and Sally Ehlers; brother Ernie Nemec; and many of her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Cards and memorials may be sent to P.O. Box 147 Midland, SD 57552.

Arrangements are with Rush Funeral Home of Philip.