Judy Eileen Teaford Greff, 84

Judy Eileen Teaford Greff, 84, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, at The Waterford Assisted Living Facility in Lincoln, NE, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Judy was born on January 7, 1941, in Cody, NE, to Wallace and Mildred Teaford. Growing up in the Sandhills shaped her strength, creativity, and deep appreciation for life’s beauty.

In 1958, Judy graduated from Cody High School where she was a cheerleader, literature lover, Girls State Representative, and a proud member of the Elvis Presley Fan Club— she even spoke to Priscilla once!

Judy attended the National School of Business in Rapid City, where she met Henry “Hank” Greff. The two married on September 24, 1959. Patrick was born in 1960, and Todd in 1961. In 1963, they moved back to Cody, NE. Karla was born in 1966.

In 1971, the family moved into a 21-room Victorian home in Burwell, NE—an exciting new chapter that unleashed Judy’s unique creativity. The house on 6th and J became her dream, blank canvas. She discovered a talent for interior design and a passion for antiques—scouting, bidding, and often winning one-ofa- kind treasures that added soul and character to every room. Her home was more than a home; it was a soulful experience.

Judy was a tremendous artist. Her journey with painting began in 1967, during a season of personal exploration while still living in Cody. What started as a quiet search for fulfillment soon blossomed into a lifelong passion. Judy dove in with curiosity—attending workshops, learning from celebrated local artists, and eventually being chosen to study abroad in France, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic. Each destination deepened her craft and expanded her artistic voice. Her work has been exhibited across the country and is part of several esteemed collections including the Museum of Nebraska Art, the Nebraska Governor’s Mansion, Nebraska Wesleyan University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Doane College, and the Robert and Karen Duncan Collection. In 1987, she was honored with the Allied Artists of America Gold Medal in New York City — one of her proudest accomplishments.

In 1994, Judy and Hank purchased “The Riverhouse,” on the Platte River near Ashland, NE—a gathering place full of love, stories, golf cart rides, lake walks, and laughter. It was their sanctuary and a favorite spot for family, friends, and artist groups alike.

Judy was the ultimate mom; steady, insightful, and full of love. She was a quiet force who knew when to listen, when to guide, and when to make you laugh. Her grandchildren absolutely adored her, and she showed up for them in every way; on the sidelines, in the crowd, and at every important moment, cheering the loudest.

A culinary whiz, Judy brought people together with her food and warmth. She was a faithful NPR listener, a devoted Democrat, and a fearless competitor at the card table; especially when it came to poker and pitch. And when it came to hosting? No one did it better. She threw unforgettable New Year’s Eve parties, complete with live lobster flown in, charades, dancing, and just enough Winking Owl to keep things lively. Her Chinese New Year celebrations were legendary; full of color, creativity, and a carefully curated feast that honored tradition and wowed her guests with every detail. She didn’t just throw a party; she created a memory.

Judy was an avid reader who delighted in language and wit. Her mornings often began with the NYT’s crossword puzzle and Wordle, and she was nearly unbeatable at Scrabble; armed with an arsenal of two-letter words and high-scoring strategies. Her sharp mind kept everyone on their toes.

She also had a deep love for her beloved dog companions, Maude, Poko, and Yoko, who brought her constant joy. Judy found beauty in the rhythms of nature and celebrated both the Winter and Summer Solstice with intention and grace. She’d write heartfelt thoughts, release them into the universe, and sometimes send them skyward in glowing paper lanterns-marking each season with reflection, hope, and a bit of magic.

As a family, summers were often spent camping at Lake McConaughy, Sam McKelvie, the Niobrara, and the Black Hills—simple moments that became lifelong memories. As Judy would say, life was good.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Hank; son-in-law, Mickey Roscoe; and parents, Wallace and Mildred Teaford.

Judy is survived by her children Pat (Jill) Greff, Todd (Saliha) Greff, and Karla Roscoe; grandchildren Shane (Mallory) Greff, Julia (Jordan) Jones, Anne (Jarrod) Conley, Peter Greff, Taylor (Ryan) Jones, and Grant Roscoe; great-grandchildren Fiona Greff, Addie and August Conley.

Also surviving are her siblings Doug (JoAnne) Teaford of Ogallala, NE; Greg (Deanna) Teaford of Johnstown, CO; Chet (Lupita) Teaford of Phoenix, AZ; and Trish Udell (Jerry Petersen) of Phoenix, AZ.

A service to celebrate Judy’s life will be held Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 2325 S. 24th Street, Lincoln, NE. A Celebration of Life gathering will follow from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at Tavern on the Square Courtyard, 816 P Street, Lincoln, NE. The burial will take place at a later date in Cody, NE.

In lieu of flowers, please support your local artists—just as Judy always did.