Obituary of Judy Ann Byich

BYICH – Judy Ann (Gomish), 76, of Ebensburg, passed away December 8, 2015 at home. Born Sept. 25, 1939 in Nicktown, daughter of the late Michael and Ruth Ann (Ager) Gomish. Survived by husband of 51 years, John Michael Byich. Dedicated and loving mother of 6 children, John Joseph (Linda) Byich; Jeffrey Patrick (Holly) Byich; Laurie Ann (Scott) Fisher; Daniel Bruce Byich; Ann Marie (Joseph) Becquet; and Robin Marie (Stanley) Golden. Adored by 12 grandchildren, Gavin, Bryan and Carisa Byich; Ethan, Lea and Amber Fisher; Darren Petrunak; Gustin and Lucas Becquet; and Owen, Gwendolyn and Delwen Rose Golden. Sister of Joan A. (Joseph) Kirby; David F. (Camilla) Gomish; Duane M. (Susan) Gomish; and Dean P. Gomish; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Member of Holy Name Roman Catholic Church, Ebensburg. Judy obtained a Bachler’s Degree in Elementary Education from Clarion University in 1960. She then worked as a kindergarten teacher for 5 years. After raising her 6 children, she went back to school and obtained her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1992 and became a therapist with Cambria County Mental Health/Mental Retardation, Ebensburg, where she worked for 20 years, retiring in 2012. Our mother, Judy, an inspiration, enjoyed a great buy at a thrift store, auction or yard sale, big hugs from her grandchildren, a cup of hot coffee, a piece of chocolate and a little quiet time with a Reader’s Digest. Our mom loved piano, traveling, sewing, flower shows, antiques and country line dancing. She was not afraid of hard work, challenges and the uncertain. She was not just our mother. Judy was a daughter, sister, wife, aunt, grandmother and a dear friend. She is forever in our hearts. Friends will be received from 6-8 p.m. on Sunday at the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Ebensburg, where vigil prayer service will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday at Holy Name Catholic Church, the Rev. Msgr. David Lockard, celebrant. Committal, Holy Name Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Holy Name Elementary School or St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy, State College, Pa.