Judith K. Gartland, 72, formerly of Charles City, Iowa, passed away Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Friendship Manor in Rock Island, Illinois.

A celebration of Judi’s life will be held in Charles City, with service details to be announced at a later date. Cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory in Moline, Illinois, under the direction of Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.

Judith Kay Hamm was born September 10, 1954, in Charles City, the daughter of Rex and Joyce (Husemoller) Hamm. She attended college, where she studied computer programming.

Judi was truly a jack of all trades. Throughout her working years, she wore many hats, including waitress and bartender, before spending her later years enjoying her work as a convenience store associate. Wherever life and work took her, Judi made connections and friendships along the way. She had a gift for striking up a conversation and truly never met a stranger.

In her free time, Judi enjoyed puzzles of all kinds, especially crossword puzzles and Sudoku. She had a special place in her heart for animals and her beloved pets. She also enjoyed motorcycle rides, spending time at the bowling alley, and visiting with friends. A good cup of her favorite “Cappa-coffee” was always a welcome treat.

Judi lived life on her own terms, with a carefree spirit and a straightforward approach to just about everything. She was never one to sugarcoat things, and you always knew where you stood with her. Her honesty, independent nature, and willingness to speak her mind were just as much a part of who she was as her love of people and the friendships she made throughout her life. Judi embraced life in her own way and left her mark on those fortunate enough to know her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her two sons and daughters-in-law, Mel and Stacey Hewitt of Bondurant, Iowa, and Shane and Kim Hewitt of Charles City; three grandchildren, McCain Hewitt, Chase Hulbert, and Dakota Hewitt; her great-granddaughter, Oaklyn Hewitt; her brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Marty Hamm of Monmouth, Illinois; and her niece, Shelly along with her daughters, Tia, Aryssia, and Raven, and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rex and Joyce Hamm.