Julia ‘Judy’ O’Neil Lainson

MARQUETTE, MI-Julia ‘Judy’ O’Neil Lainson, age 91, of California, passed away on July 30, 2025, in the loving care of her husband.

Born on May 17, 1934, in Negaunee, Michigan, Judy was the daughter of Glenn and Fleda (VanCampen) Minzey. She was raised in the Negaunee and Gwinn area and graduated from Gwinn High School. Following high school, she attended Northern Michigan University where she pursued a degree in education. Judy began her teaching career in the Ishpeming Public School System, where she taught first grade and touched the lives of countless children during her 40-year career.

A devoted mother and homemaker, Judy was deeply connected to nature. She enjoyed cross-country skiing, biking, walking, and spending as much time as she could outdoors. Her love for nature extended to her knowledge-she could identify trees, plants, and edible nuts during a walk in the woods. She also loved animals, especially her dogs.

During her summers off, Judy served as president and managed the books for O’Neil Roofing Company, the business she co-owned with her first husband, Thomas O’Neil, Sr. She was also active in the community, serving as president of the Negaunee Township Little League and supporting the activities of her children and their friends.

After the passing of her first husband in 1981, Judy later met and married Dr. Richard ‘Dick’ Lainson on May 7, 1988. Together, they shared a passion for travel, exploring the country in their RV and enjoying numerous cruises around the world, especially through Debbie Tour Cruises.

Judy will be remembered as a kind, giving, and compassionate woman who would do anything to help others.

She is survived by her husband, Dr. Richard ‘Dick’ Lainson; her three children, Judy DiGeorgio of Jacksonville, Florida, Tom (Julie) O’Neil, Jr. of Wolverine Lake, Michigan, and Jim (Kim) O’Neil of Ypsilanti, Michigan; two stepchildren, Debbie Stottlemyer and Doug (Lari) Lainson; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She also helped raise her three nieces, Jacquelyn Pennala, Patricia O’Neil, and Sharon Kaldor.

Judy was preceded in death by her first husband, Thomas O’Neil, Sr.; her parents; her sister, Betsy Bernhardt; her brother, Glenn Minzey; and her stepsister, Lorraine Ward.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Marquette County Alzheimer’s Association.

Honoring her wishes, private family services will be held.

The Canale Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared online at www.canalefuneral.com.